Australian Mining November 2010

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SERVING THE MINING INDUSTRY SINCE 1908

VOLUME 102/11 – NOVEMBER 2010

www.miningaustralia.com.au

NO.1 FOR MINING TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT

Coal Mining

Black gold Energy and efficiency

P.16

Drill & Blast

Underground mining Print Post Approved PP255003/00535

Digging deeper, digging harder

7th Annual Prospect Awards Finalists

Drilling down The hole solution

P.22

Minesite Vehicles

Your machinery What’s got you moving

P.64

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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 – Michael Mills 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 All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher.

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History never repeats?

The only certainty throughout the mining tax saga has been the damaging uncertainty.

W

hat a turn up for the books. Who could have known that the many twists and turns of this mining tax saga would have brought us here?

From the big three miners potentially walking away and withdrawing their support of the Mineral Resources Rent Tax due to some shifty wordplay by the Government through to the original Resources Super Profit Tax actually being unconstitutional, no one could have predicted we would end up here when former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd first put the policy forward.

Western Australia looks close to revolt, with Premier Colin Barnett publically stating he would support any chal-

Comment Cole Latimer ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au lenge of the mining tax in the high court.

It has really exacerbated the disconnect between the Eastern and Western states in this country.

fact that is seems now the Government may look to hit the industry twice, by apparently reneging on agreements to continue crediting miners after they pay the state and

No-one could have predicted we would end up here when the tax was first proposed.

No doubt, many in the industry view this as a victory over what they saw as a poorly planned, and very poorly formed mining tax.

Even more so with the

territory regional royalty taxes.

Speaking to colleagues overseas, I have heard it expressed quite a few times that the only reason Australia

is doing so much better than most countries following the devastating global financial crisis, is due predominately to the mining industry.

And it’s a surprise to them that the Government would then turn around and attempt to gouge the very industry which helped it through storm, not once, but twice.

It really does not make sense.

Especially after going ahead and imposing a tax on the industry without consultation or willingness to be flexible over its conditions, was one of the reasons Rudd was deposed.

Maybe Gillard needs to be reminded of this during the Government’s relatively short consultation period.

ON THE COVER THIS month’s cover features a Sandvik continuous miner in an underground soft rock mine.

These electrically powered, track-mounted machines are designed to eliminate the need for drill and blast.

The units use advanced cutting technology to cut and gather the material simultaneously and convey it into shuttle cars, haul trucks or a continuous haulage system.

AustralianMining

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Contents Drilling for their lives

November 2010 issue

7th Annual Prospect Awards Finalists

Mine of the Year...p34

Tunnelling systems set for trial

Australian expertise played a vital role in the Chile mine issue...p25

Innovations in boring...p10

Features UNDERGROUND MINING Refined remote loading ............................... p12 Faster, better, harder ................................... p14 COAL MINING Opening up open cuts .................................. p16 DRILL & BLAST Getting to the core of the problem ............... p22 Head of the family .......................................... p28 Atlas unleashes its menagerie of rigs ............ p30 Shock and Ore ................................................ p32

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7TH ANNUAL PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS Coal Mine of the Year .................................... p36 Metalliferous Mine of the Year ..................... p38 Explorer of the Year........................................ p40 Minerals Processing Plant of the Year........... p42 Excellence in Mine OH&S ............................ p44 Excellence in Mine OH&S ........................... p46 Contract Miner of the Year .......................... p48 Innovative Mining Solutions .......................... p50 Mine Manager of the Year ............................. p52 Outstanding Contribution to Mining ........... p54 Employer of Choice ....................................... p56

MINESITE VEHICLES ................................. p58 MOTORS & DRIVES ................................... p66

Regulars INDUSTRY COMMENT ................................... p06 PRODUCT FOCUS: Pipes, Pumps, Valves & Compressors ......................................... p74-80 PRODUCT SHOWCASE ............................ p86-94 JOBS................................................................. p96 EVENTS............................................................ p98

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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INDUSTRY COMMENT

Reaching out to bereaved families A mining legacy scheme has been launched to protect the families of miners, Jamie Wade writes.

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WA-based not-for-profit organisation established to assist the dependants of mine workers killed or permanently disabled through accident or illness is welcoming support from the mining community.

Miners’ Promise, chaired by Ian Fletcher – vice president of external affairs at BHP Billiton, was officially launched at a WA Mining Club function earlier this year.

It is a legacy scheme developed to support the needs of families confronted with the death or permanent injury of a family member who is employed within WA’s resources sector.

Miners’ Promise seeks to assist the families of its members to obtain more immediate assistance during the first eight to 10 weeks while the family waits for the settlement of the estate – or significantly longer if it is a violent or accidental fatality.

When a subscribing member dies the Miners’ Promise immediately advances up to $50,000 to the dependants against the insurance policy.

Miners’ Promise executive officer

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Legacy chairman Ian Fletcher.

and secretary Peter Browne, a retired Police Officer and Manager of WA Police Legacy for seven years until July 2009, said the scheme provided support at a critical time for families.

“We can start advancing money immediately to affected families to deal with the issues of mortgages, car payments and funeral expenses,” Browne told Australian Mining.

“We take the financial anxiety out for families and allow them to grieve.”

There are many other benefits made available to dependants in addition to this monetary award.

They relate to family support and counselling services, home maintenance, financial planning help, legal support and advice and several others.

For four dollars per week, employees in the resources industry of Western Australia can join the scheme which is underwritten by Hannover Life Re of Australia.

Other members of the management Committee include Helen Fitzroy, author of Just a Number, whose husband, Steven, was killed in a WA underground mining accident in 1991.

She has experienced firsthand the problems of dealing with rebuilding a ‘normal’ life since her husband’s death for herself and her three children.

Fitzroy said that seeing the Miners’ Promise become a reality is a dream come true.

“Nineteen years ago I lost my husband in a mining accident and for seven years after his death I was left, with very little support, to deal with the inevitable aftermath of that traumatic event,” she said.

“The Miners’ Promise will ensure that no dependent feels like they are alone during a time when support is so crucial.”

• Miners’ Promise Peter Browne 02 9228 8558 pbrowne@minerspromise.org.au www.minerspromise.org.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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HEADLINES

The latest mining news and safety Australian Mining presents the latest news and safety affecting you from the boardroom to the mine and everywhere in between. Visit www.miningaustralia.com.au to keep up to date with what is happening.

Miners fear tax back flip Miners are concerned that the Government may renege on aspects of its mine tax agreements.

The big three, Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton and Xstrata, are considering walking away from the deal struck earlier this year, believing that the Government would not honour its agreement that all state and territory royalty taxes would be credited against the Mineral Resources Rent Tax (MRRT).

Resources minister Martin Ferguson is understood to have said that this agreement would not apply to any future increases in the royalties.

However, he later stated that “royalty rates that applied or changes to royalty rates that were scheduled to apply in the future, as at 2 May 2010, will be credited.”

Ferguson explained that if resources companies could claim on the royalties that are increased after the introduction of the mining tax, then it would be a drain on the Commonwealth’s finances.

Instead, he argued that it would be an issue that has to be taken up with the individual states.

According to The West Australian, this position is opposing to the agreement signed between the miners and the Government back in July.

It stated that in the agreement, “all State and Territory royalties will be creditable against the resources tax liability”.

The miners saw this as a key issue in their support for the tax.

If the massive mining companies were to walk away from the agreement, it could force the Government into extending its current series of consultations with the industry as it searches for support.

Rio and BHP confirm joint venture scrapping After a protracted period of uncertainty and conjecture, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto have confirmed their proposed $117 billion Pilbara iron ore joint venture has been canned.

The companies this morning finally acknowledged it had become increasingly unlikely they would

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receive all the required approvals from various regulatory bodies.

The transaction required approvals from the European Commission, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Japan Fair Trade Commission, the Korea Fair Trade Commission and the German Federal Cartel Office.

According to a statement from Rio, all of these bodies had indicated they would not approve the joint venture in its current form.

Some regulators indicated they would require substantial remedies that would be unacceptable to both parties, including divestments, while others indicated they would prohibit the transaction outright, the company said.

“The full value of the synergies on offer from a 50-50 joint venture was a prize well worth pursuing,” Rio chief executive Tom Albanese said.

“Both companies have worked hard together over the last 16 months in a positive spirit to demonstrate its pro-competitive effects and I am disappointed that ultimately the regulators did not agree with us.”

BHP chief executive Marius Kloppers echoed these views, saying the decision to terminate the proposal had been reached reluctantly.

The announcement comes after months of media speculation that the joint venture was in trouble, which forced repeated denials from the executives of both companies.

In another sign things were not on track, the companies had to repeatedly ask the ACCC to delay making its decision so they had more time for discussions with overseas regulators.

The joint venture was first tabled in June last year and an official agreement was signed in December.

The announcement will be well received by Chinese and European steelmakers and the world’s largest iron ore miner, Brazilian giant Vale.

Germany blocks Rio BHP joint venture The Pilbara iron ore joint venture between Rio and BHP has been blocked by German antitrust authorities.

After consistent market rumours that Rio would look to walk away

Australian Mining gets the latest news every day, providing mining professionals with the up to the minute information on safety, news and technology for the Australian mining and resources industry. from the $116 billion asset merger, it will instead be blocked by Germany’s Federal Cartel Office, which has announced its intention to prohibit the proposed iron ore joint venture.

Both mining companies voiced their disappointment at the move, but stated they “acknowledge the concerns expressed by some regulators and of the obstacles to achieving clearance for the joint venture.”

The German agency will officially send a formal statement to the miners next week.

Rudd Government told RSPT could be unconstitutional, senate hears The head of Australian Government Solicitors (AGS) has confirmed that the Federal Government had been advised that the now-scrapped Resource Super Profits Tax (RSPT) may have been unconstitutional.

Shadow Attorney-General Senator George Brandis last night questioned AGS head Ian Govey during a Senate Estimates Committee hearing dealing with legal and constitutional affairs, The Australian reports. AGS prepared advice for the Treasury on the possibility of the RSPT being challenged in the High Court.

The advice suggested the tax may have been unconstitutional on the grounds it had the potential to discriminate between the states.

The counsel suggested the RSPT could have allowed a person mining a resource in one state to receive a different tax refund or credit from a person mining the same resource in another state.

Govey said the AGS had suggested changes to the RSPT to the Government, which at the time was headed by Kevin Rudd.

Upon ousting Rudd and becoming the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard scrapped the RSPT in favour of the Minerals Resource Rent Tax (MRRT).

Govey said he did not know if the MRRT had overcome the constitutional hurdle.

A spokesman for Wayne Swan last night said the MRRT would be implemented to the letter of the Constitution and there were extensive consultations on its legislative design underway.

WA supports mining tax court challenges West Australian premier Colin Barnett has vowed to support any mining companies that mount a High Court challenge to the mining tax.

“If there was a constitutional challenge from a mining company then the State Government would probably join that challenge,” he said.

Barnett has accused the Federal Government of trying to hide loopholes in the tax following The West Australian’s report which uncovered constitutional problems surrounding the implementation of both the Resources Super Profit Tax (RSPT) and the Mineral Resources Rent Tax (MRRT).

He said that Federal Government is attempting to directly interfere in the sovereign rights of the state.

The West reported that treasurer Wayne Swan was warned in May this year that the proposed RSPT would have breached constitutional requirements that national taxes do not discriminate between states.

If a state had to increase royalty rates on select minerals, then the High Court would find this

discriminatory and thus unconstitutional.

Simon Bennison, chief executive of the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC), said that “it is time the Government came clean on the details of the RSPT and MRRT.” Bennison went on to say that “AMEC has always been of the view that, in accordance with the Australian Constitution, mineral resources are owned by the respective States/ Territory governments, and not the Federal Government.

Gillard warns of reliance on China Prime Minister Julia Gillard has spoken out of the potential dangers of Australia’s mining industry over relying on Chinese demand.

She instead outlined a series of measures to grow the base of the resource exports.

Gillard explained that if the industry became too dependent on a single sector, in this instance China, it “takes too big a risk.

“Even while the demand for commodities remains strong, it risks a patch works economy,” she said.

In particular, Gillard singled out Queensland for potentially creating “an economy where some of the country booms while other parts go backwards.”

She called for a broadening of Australia’s capabilities into more secondary industries, saying “if the demand for raw materials fell away, Australia would only remain strong if economic growth was broad based – encompassing services, manufacturing and agriculture.”

These statements to the Queensland Media Club come on the back of ongoing open discussions with the mining industry, which began earlier this month, as the Government works towards a more encompassing Mineral Resources Rent Tax (MRRT).

This week has also seen Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan having to defend the mining tax at the New York Stock Exchange.

Swan outlined the tax as aiding in “picking up the pace of reform – to make Australia an even more attractive investment destination." www.miningaustralia.com.au

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UNDERGROUND MINING

TUNNELLING SYSTEMS set for trial Rio Tinto is developing a new tunnel boring system which can excavate at up to twice the speed of typical methods.

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hree new tunnel boring systems will undergo verification trials at the Northparkes copper and gold mine in 2012, Rio Tinto has announced.

The first of three underground excavation systems, developed in conjunction with Aker Wirth, was completed last month.

The system is 64 m long, has a maximum boring diameter of six metres and has minimum tunnel dimen-

Rio Tinto and Sumitomo have committed $90 million for feasibility study into expanding the Northparkes underground operations. The companies are investigating the viability of the E48 block cave mine.

sions of five metres by five metres.

Rio Tinto head of innovation John McGagh said the technology could lead to a step-change improvement of conventional drill and blast practices.

“Depending on rock conditions, this system should provide a capability to excavate at more than double the rate of conventional methods,” he said.

“For example, in a typical deep

copper ore body, the rate of horizontal tunnelling could be as high as 10 to 13 m a day using this new system.

“Aker Wirth is one of three partners with whom Rio Tinto is working to develop new equipment and systems for the rapid construction of deep underground mines.”

This tunnelling boring system trial has been integrated into a previously announced $90 million prefeasibility expansion study at Northparkes.

McGagh said the trial will complete the final stage of the systems’ performance verifications.

Rio is developing the systems as part of its ‘Mine of the Future’ program, which aims to significantly improve the construction and operation of underground mines.

“This is about The Mine of the Future program going underground, as we promised we would at the start of 2010,” McGagh said.

“This system incorporates con-

tinuous mechanical rock excavation that will not damage new tunnel walls, while still providing the ability to mechanically install ground support in parallel with tunnel advance.

“Importantly for Rio, it provides an opportunity to introduce fundamentally safer processes into the underground mining industry.

“This announcement demonstrates Rio’s ongoing commitment to exploiting step-change technology to deliver superior shareholder value while improving both safety and environmental performance.”

The Northparkes mines are a joint venture between Rio Tinto and Japan’s Sumitomo Group.

The company is aiming to deliver the system to the mine by early-2012 and have the trials completed by the end of the year.

After the trial, this technology is destined for use in other Rio Tinto underground mining operations internationally, the company said.

The 64 m long boring machines could create horizontal tunnels at a rate of up to 13 m per day.

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UNDERGROUND MINING

Refined remote loading Remote operation of underground equipment is making the workplace safer.

O

ne of the most hazardous occupations in the world is that of an underground miner.

The recent rescue of the miners trapped approximately 700 metres below the earth in Chile is testament to some of the issues that underground miners face daily.

And despite the number of safety regulations in place around vehicles operating underground, there is always the ever present potential of a serious accident.

However, as the industry pushes further towards automation, mining is becoming safer and more efficient than ever before as it removes a lot of the risk inherent in operating heavy machinery deep underground by simply removing the person from that situation in the first place.

One Australian company is at the front of this march towards greater automation and safety.

Remote Control Technologies (RCT) has developed its first above ground teleremote control station for underground production loaders.

Named the Remote Control Technologies Control Master Teleremote Surface Control Station, the technology allows for shift change ‘hot seat’ operator changeovers, as the operators no longer have to travel long distance

The system allows for the remote control of underground loaders from a surface station.

to and from underground mining locations.

Working with one of the world’s largest miners, RCT has transferred teleremote operation of the loaders at a Queensland lead silver mine from underground to surface control, a move that was described by the miner as “at the forefront of teleremote development in the industry.”

Recently completed, this project paves the way for a more rapid changeover of vehicle operators during shift transitions, aiding in increased productivity as well as a number of operator health and safety benefits.

When installing the technology, the mining company required a number of safe

The remote control station.

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guards to be in place, including machine control disparity error checking to be fully functional as well as displaying the safety and disparity error checking functions of the teleremote system while allowing the operation of the loader from the surface.

One of the main benefits of the introduction of this technology is the reduction of workers’ exposure to underground hazards such as diesel particulate matter from the vehicles, dangerous dust and damaging high noise levels.

It also resulted in a visible reduction in the number of light vehicles traversing the tunnels, and importantly it removes the miner from the possibility of being injured whilst working with or on an underground vehicle.

Importantly, with the installation of the teleremote loader there is also the production benefit of not having to shut down during firing times, depending on the location of the machine and the firing.

The teleremote underground production loader control system itself consists of an underground Tele Level

Cabinet (TLC) which is connected to a fibre optic cable running to the surface and which then connects to the Teleremote Surface Operator Station.

The TLC contains a number of master products including a series CM2000D or CM2200 transmitter; video receiver demodulators; LCD monitors for visual displays;

communications systems; a laser guard electronic barrier system; a power management system with backup; text on video systems for vehicle health reporting; as well as MUX and it can also connect into the standard production level telecoms and laser guard systems in the tele loader working areas.

The surface teleremote control station operates as if it were situated underground, even though in reality the tele loader can be working more than two kilometers away from the surface control centre.

The mining company that has installed Remote Control Technologies Teleremote Control Station at its Queensland mine is already looking at expanding the system into more of its mines.

With teleremote technology pegged as the future of mining operations, it is believed that it will significantly reduce the need for fly in fly out contractors, and reduce the negative effects this working lifestyle can have on families.

• Remote Control Technologies Craig Buchanan 08 9352 3149 craigb@rct.net.au www.rct.net.au

The remote technology will remove miners from the coal face. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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NO MATTER WHAT PARTS WE TRY, WE ALWAYS GO BACK TO TOYOTA GENUINE. Ken Watson – Light Vehicle Manager, Minara Resources Limited, Murrin Murrin WA

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UNDERGROUND MINING

Faster, better, harder A new compact continuous miner is opening up possibilities for what was previously uneconomical coal.

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s the capability for underground coal mining increases, companies are looking to mine difficult seams that were once thought uneconomical.

To service this need, Bucyrus has developed a new more compact continuous miner to tackle these seams.

Weighing in at approximately 61 tonnes, the new Bucyrus 25C continuous miner integrates the rugged features of the 25M series while adding new technological enhancements.

The 25C features the latest machine control system with large transmitters.

A new generation hydraulic system features pressure and flow on demand as well as fewer components.

It is equipped with a 164kW variable frequency drive (VFD) traction control for higher speeds and greater control as well as greater torque to ground control, which combined with the machine geometry facilitates cross cut turning.

Both the hydraulic and VFD systems provide the miner with greater overall machine protection.

Comes with a 164kW variable frequency drive traction control for higher speed.

It operates a broad range with maximum rated cutting head power.

The machine comes with two 205kW cutter head motors and is the most powerful continuous miner in its class.

The cutter head motors are protected by a torque limiting clutch which prevents damage in the event of a rock strike.

The high strength steel drums feature 5.1 cm thick walls with a

maximum bit tip standoff.

The compact continuous miner is designed to operate in tunnels with heights of between .86 to 3 metres in low to mid seams with hard cutting conditions such as rock inclusions.

The robust main frame of the machine uses 75mm steel plates, which according to Bucyrus are 50% thicker than its direct competitors.

The heavier, rigid frame of the

machine allows for more efficient cutting when sumping at the top of the seam and ripping to the bottom.

Its support frame is fabricated from high strength steel and has massive steel legs measuring approximately 15.25cm thick.

Having not only the largest in class boom pivot bores, the continuous miner also features hardened steel pins and replaceable bushings.

The 25C has a 96.5cm conveyor which provides higher throughput with bi-directional discharge forming an integral part of the main frame.

An hydraulic take up maintains proper chain tension for all conveyor positions and extends chain life.

The compact miner is designed for easy maintenance with independent cutter heads, traction, control systems and wethead technology.

• Bucyrus Australia Underground Tim Clarke 02 4914 7000 tim.clarke@au.bucyrus.com www.bucyrus.com

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14 November 2010

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COAL MINING

Opening up

NEW OPEN CUTS

Rio Tinto has recently opened Australia’s latest open cut coal mine at Clermont.

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hile many predicted the threat of a heavy mining tax would stop, or at the very least slow the resources industry, clearly some were not listening.

Expanding its already massive coal arm, Rio Tinto has officially opened Australia’s newest open cut thermal coal mine at Clermont.

Construction on the mine and associated infrastructure started back in 2007, with the first shipment of coal delivered in May this year.

Holding a 190 million tonnes of coal, the mine has an expected life span of 17 years with production expected to peak at more than 12 million tonnes per year of export coal and 100 thousand tonnes for domestic use when the mine reaches capacity in 2013.

Rio’s global chief executive energy Doug Ritchie told the hundreds gathered at the opening of the mine that it was special for many reasons.

“It has five coal seams that are particularly thick, the Wolfgang seam is 35 metres thick on average and up to 100 metres in some places.”

With the seams located under a large volume of overburden, Rio built it’s only in-

pit crusher/conveyor system on site.

“This will reduce annual truck running costs by more than 35%,” Ritchie said.

While the majority of the mine’s coal can be crushed and sold directly for export markets such as Korea, Japan and Thailand, it also has a small coal processing plant that uses paste thickening technology similar to that at Xstrata’s Bulga Coal mine.

Using this technology eliminated the need for a conventional tailings dam on site.

Now that the mine has officially opened, Clermont is aiming to continue to play a strong part in the local community’s future.

In 2009 alone, Clermont contributed more than $610 000 to community projects.

It is looking to replace the role of the neighbouring Rio Tinto Blair Athol Mine, where closure is currently planned for 2016.

The Blair Athol mine has been central to the region over the past 25 years and Clermont Mine will extend this into the future, Ritchie said.

Clermont will also send its processed coal along a

The mine’s conveyor runs for over 13 kilometres.

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Clermont mine will ramp up production to approximately 12 million tonnes of coal by 2013.

newly constructed 13 kilometre conveyor to the older mine, using the existing equipment at Blair Athol for stockpiling and railing to port.

More than 10 000 applications were received during the mine’s recruitment drive, with people such as Clermont local Brad Perrin and Rebecca Chilcott finding jobs at the site.

Having worked at both Blair Athol and Clermont as well as growing up nearby, Brad Perrin had a unique perspective.

“Rio Tinto has built a

good relationship with its near neighbours and done their utmost to minimise the impact on the area,” Perrin said.

Some of this minimisation includes the protection of endangered plant species found near the site.

The mine has entered into an agreement where it will sponsor University of Queensland research into one of Australia’s rarest plants, the Belyando Cobblers Peg, and how to best re-establish it.

It is also part of long running research into wild koala

populations in the region.

Rebecca Chilcott found her new job, driving haul trucks and water carts daunting at first but says she has really enjoyed the challenge.

During construction, the mine won an Australian Mining Prospect Award for its proactive approach to hiring women.

Currently women make up 27% of the site’s workforce, well above the QLD state average of 11%.

The mine aims to have a total of 380 people employed when fully operational.

Clermont’s mobile tripper spreader places the overburden on a soil heap. www.miningaustralia.com.au

BAC235X297AD.pdf

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BAC Modular Workplace and Storage Systems (P) 02 9832 2777 • 193 - 195 Power Street Glendenning NSW 2761 www.bacsystems.com.au

AM.NOV10.PG018.pdf

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PRODUCT FOCUS: PROCESS CONTROL INSTRUMENTATION

Submersible pressure sensor BESTECH Australia has released the AST4500/4510 submersible pressure sensor, from American Sensor The units are sealed for submersion in Technologies. liquids.

The sensor is a media-isolated pressure transducer intended for use in the measurement of liquids compatible with stainless steel, Polyurethane and Polyolefin.

This pressure sensor is suitable for industrial and water management applications, including liquid level tanks, ground water level and depth measurement, petrol fuel tanks and waste water reservoirs.

The units are sealed for submersion in liquids, but are also vented through the cable in order to handle barometric pressure changes.

The conductors of the cable are also isolated from the outside environment to keep the sensor operational for long-term use.

The transducers are available with voltage or four to 20 mA outputs.

Gauge pressure measurements are available in ranges brtween zero to one and zero to 100 psi, with accuracy ±0.25% of the measurement range.

• Bestech Australia 03 9584 1133 sales@bestech.com.au www.bestech.com.au

Acoustic switch HAWK Measurement Systems has released the Gladiator Acoustic Switch, which uses acoustic wave technology in a new sender/receiver form.

The unit can be used for blocked The switch can be used for blocked chute detection, point level detection chute detection, point level detection and anti-collision applications for and anti-collision applications. heavy machinery.

The unit powers two AW transducers, which use special Hawk-developed software to pulse and receive each other’s acoustic echoes.

When the path between the transducers is blocked, the units immediately detect the presence or absence change of the return signal and trigger a communications relay for indication or control purposes.

The transducers work either together or independently to detect pulse interference, allowing twice the application security.

According to the company, the units are self-cleaning and do not require contact with the product.

The acoustic switch is designed for continuous operation in dusty, wet environments where other technologies fail, the manufacturer said.

• Hawk Measurement Systems Brian Tiedemann 03 9873 4750 brian.tiedemann@hawk.com.au www.hawk.com.au

18 November 2010

AustralianMining

Switch-mode power supplies AUTOMATED Control Engineering is supplying the SNT230-K series of switch-mode power supplies from FEAS. The company said these robust devices can power sensitive loads in hard industrial environments.

The unit has been constructed with superior radio shielding and integrated into a functional and stable casing. The SNT230-K series power supply is optimally suited for loads requiring high starting currents. The short circuit-proof output DC voltage of this type can be adjusted from 22.4 to 29.6 V. The SNT230-K series use a full-bridge push-pull converter which generates a symmetric output voltage.

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

The unit is optimally suited for loads requiring high starting currents.

Piston pressure gauge FLUKE Calibration has introduced the PG9607 piston gauge, which delivers unequalled performance for measurement of absolute and gauge pressures up to 500 kPa. The PG9607 piston gauge was designed with a 100 g mass to allow a wide range of pressures defined by a single piston-cylinder assembly and a new high-performance 50 mm piston-cylinder design.

The unit uses a five kilopascal piston-cylinder specially designed for low geometric distortion to support dimensional effective area determination with low uncertainty, for true fundamental definition of pressure.

The gauge uses DH Instruments’ AMH automatic mass handling technology to allow fully unattended testing, the establishment of a better reference vacuum and improved long-term mass stability.

The COMPASS calibration management software is also offered to support complete test system automation without the need for custom programming.

• Fluke Australia Dennis Juniper 03 9633-0444 dennis.juniper@fluke.com www.fluke.com.au

Temperature data logger PACIFIC Sensor Technologies has released the HiTemp150-PT Temperature Data Logger with 24 inch flexible stainless steel probe.

The unit, from Madgetech, is a submersible, temperature logger that can operate up to 150°C. The probe is durable and can be spiralled, bent or angled in any direction, making it easy to log temperatures in hard to reach places.

Pacific Sensor Technologies HiTemp150-PT can measure and record The flexible probe temperatures between -40 and 150°C. can read Users can select reading rate options from one reading every temperature in hard second to one every 12 hours. to reach places.

The storage medium is non-volatile solid state memory, providing maximum data security even if the battery becomes discharged.

Accompanying the unit is MadgeTech software, which allows users to view the data in graph and summary views and print professional reports.

• Pacific Sensor Technologies 1300 662720 sales@pacificsensortech.com.au www.pacificsensortech.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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RELIABILITY

AD_AMTERNOV_10.pdf

Melbourne

RELIABILITY. IF YOUR APRON FEEDER IS OUT OF BUSINESS, SO IS YOUR PLANT.

Perth Sydney

TEREX JAQUES APRON FEEDERS Designed and built with genuine experience that few can match, Terex Jaques heavy-duty Apron Feeders deliver performance you can rely on.

With capacities to 12,000 tph, and sizes to D11, our Apron Feeders are fabricated from high strength, durable components to withstand heavy material impact and shock loads in severe quarrying and mining conditions. Terex Jaques reliability has been the industry benchmark for decades.

Designed to suit all applications Variable speed electro-mechanical or hydraulic drive Oil filled, sealed for crawler track type rollers & SALT chain Segmented sprocket design for easy replacement or reversal High head load capacity Centralised lube point or optional auto lube system National branch network for spare parts and service support

FOR SALES AND APPLICATIONS ADVICE:

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MINING SOLUTIONS

A PERFECT FIT BLUESCOPE PIPELINE SUPPLIES AND VICTAULIC

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AM.NOV10.PG021.pdf

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PRODUCT FOCUS: MAPPING & SURVEYING

Laser scanning software

The mapping system can acquire data even in inclement weather.

Laser mapping system TOPCON Positioning Systems (TPS) has announced the IP-S2 HD Mapping System, a vehicle-mounted surveying and mapping system featuring a high-definition LIDAR scanner from Velodyne Lidar.

The mapping system incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including high-precision GNSS receivers, an inertial measurement unit, vehicle wheel encoder, 360° digital cameras and the HDL-64E S2.2 LiDAR scanner, the company said.

The LIDAR sensor is designed to allow vehicle operators to acquire very dense point clouds while travelling at posted speed limits even in inclement weather.

The senor scans more than 1.3 million points per second with 64 lasers.

The mapping system can acquire a complete dataset with only a single crewmember in single vehicle.

• Topcon Positioning Systems 1800 867 266 info@topconpositioning.com.au www.topconpositioning.com.au

TOPCON Positioning Systems (TPS) has released the ScanMaster 2.0 software, which it says is faster and more powerful than previous versions. The software is designed to work with Topcon’s recently released GLS-1500 laser scanner.

According to the company, the scan master 2.0 has features such as lag-free visualisations, automatic edge and region extraction, volume computation, automatic noise filtering and automatic CAD extraction. The software is available as a free viewer module that enables instrument control, visualisation and data mark-up.

The GLS-1500 scanner sends out a laser beam that captures data at 30,000 points per second at a range of 150m for typical surfaces and an extended range of 330m for more reflective surfaces. The unit has the mechanical ability to select from multiple lens arrays to control the laser beam. The company said this provides consistent four millimetre accuracy throughout the range from one to 150 m.

• Topcon Positioning Systems 1800 867 266 info@topconpositioning.com.au www.topconpositioning.com.au

The software is designed to work with the GLS-1500 laser scanner.

Imaging spectrograph ADEPT Electronic Solutions is distributing the new high-resolution hyperspectral imaging spectrograph from Specim, the V10M ImSpector. The unit’s resolution allows it to be used on aerial and ground vehicles for a variety of geological imaging and surveying applications in the mining industry. The unit can also be used for process and quality control applications and remote sensing tasks.

According to the company, the spectrograph makes use of the most advanced and sensitive detector

technology available to guarantee an excellent signal-to-noise ratio.

The device provides negligible sub-pixel distortions with an excellent 1300 pixels spatial resolution and with an uncompromised imaging speed of 100 frames-per-second.

• Adept Electroinic Solutions 02 9979 2599 adept@adept.net.au www.adept.net.au

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Virgin Blue accelerate is our air travel program for companies with a total annual domestic air travel expenditure (across all Australian domestic carriers) between $20,000 & $500,000 per annum. Here’s how our range of benefits can help your bottom line: Earn travel credit of up to $27,500* per year

UNEARTH A WEALTH OF BUSINESS BENFITS

U Use your credit card of choice En Enjoy discounted annual membership to The Lounge Acc Accumulate Velocity Points to use for local and international travel, thro through our frequent flyer program, Velocity Rewards To find out more about our commitment to delivering flexible air travel solution solutions and real, meaningful savings for your business, call 1300 246 498 or email vbaccelerate@virginblue.com.au

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www.miningaustralia.com.au

AustralianMining

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DRILL & BLAST

Getting to THE CORE of the problem The recent Goldfields Mining Exhibition was used to showcase the latest drill and coring bits.

T

he Goldfields Mining Exhibition is one of the best opportunities for West Australian companies to showcase their latest technical advancements.

From the smallest electrical components through to massive drill rigs and haul trucks, it is a forum where the mining industry can see the latest innovations.

One of the many companies unveiling its new products is Econ Metallic.

Headquartered in India, Econ specialises in the design and manufacture of high performance Rockpecker PDC bits, forged in one piece from steel alloys, and ranging in size from a small 29 millimetres through to a massive 450 millimetres in diameter.

The company highlighted its latest Rockpecker drill bits, a centre core

22 November 2010

AustralianMining

drilling bit and a chevron type full flushing drill bit at the exhibition.

According to Econ, the new centre core drilling bit has been designed for use by scientists and technicians undertaking geo-mechanical investigations.

The Rockpecker bit features the blades positioned in such a way as to leave a small core of uncut rock in a centre slot that has been incorporated into the bit’s design, to allow for a full cut analysis and evaluation of the ore.

The centre core drill bit’s wing gauge area has been built with a helical design, which means that this latest bit demonstrates improved drilling performance, according to Econ Metallic managing director Rajnish Dhawan.

The design of the centre corer “also ensures proper core information for evaluation and analysis rather than the small, cut pieces of rock that are typi-

The centre core drill bit’s wing gauge has a helical design, which is said to improve the overall drilling performance.

cally yielded by conventional bits,” Dhawan said.

He went on to say that “because of the drill bit’s ‘no centre’ design, they have an increased cutting efficiency and give a much deeper cut that enhances the overall rate of penetration.”

An additional advantage of the centre core bit is that the core sample can provide the information needed to assist geologists in picking the most appropriate core point to drill – or not to drill.

“This information provided can also help prevent an expensive sidewall core job.”

The centre core bits are coated for corrosion protection and surface hardness.

Econ also showcased its reusable bit at GME. This reusable bit features the latest full flow technology for drilling formations from soft clay and shales through to slightly harder sedimentary rock such as sandstone and limestone, and is particularly suited to the intensive task of geothermal exploration drilling.

The new chevron type, full flushing Rockpecker bit lets large volumes of drilling fluids circulate through during the drilling process, giving geothermal drilling technicians a higher rate of penetration and stability while digging, according to Econ.

The bit itself incorporates size 1313 PDC cutters and carbide gauge protection with an extended gauge area for more balanced cutting.

The full flushing Rockpecker is also designed so that threads can be easily tightened or loosened, while

the bit’s steel body has been coated to prevent excessive corrosion as well as increasing the overall hardness of the surface.

According to Dhawan, Econ used GME to hunt for prospective Australian distributors for their drill bits and “are planning an Australian reconditioning facility so that people can continue to drill in soft, medium and hard rocks.”

• Econ Metallic Rajnish Dhawan 0406 087 827 bits@rockpecker.com www.rockpecker.com

Econ also exhibited its reusable bit. www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMCOATNOV_10.pdf

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Coates Hire can provide you with a totally reliable solution to help maximise productivity on any Mining project.

With more than 1.5 million items of equipment, plus over 200 branches nationwide, Coates Hire is the largest and most experienced hire company in Australia.

So talk to the experts at Coates Hire, they’ll make sure you get the right advice and right gear for your project.

coateshire.com.au

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DRILL & BLAST

Drilling for their lives Australian expertise and equipment played a huge role in the location and rescue of the Chilean miners, who spent more than two months trapped beneath the surface. Michael Mills reports.

T

he fate of the 33 men trapped 688 m underground in the San José mine in Chile captivated the world in a way that few events have.

Their 68-day ordeal finally came to an end on the 13 October, when they were all safely winched to the surface under the gaze of an estimated one billion television viewers around the world.

However, that the miners are safe is due in no small part to the specialist expertise of an Australian drilling consultant.

Kelvin Brown, the Perthbased global products manager of Reflex Instruments, was heavily involved in the ultimately successful efforts to locate the men.

The incident began on the 5 August when the mine’s roof collapsed, leaving the workers

www.miningaustralia.com.au

stranded in a refuge chamber measuring around 50 square metres.

Drill rigs raced to the scene and immediately began boring into the earth to find them, using a technique known as directional drilling, which essentially means the hole is at an angle between horizontal and vertical.

According to Brown, the initial efforts to find the men, while done with the best intentions, were carried out with too much haste and not enough care.

“When the Mining Ministry put the call out for the neighbouring resource companies to free up their drill rigs, there were suddenly nine rigs on site and everybody was just rushing,” he told Australian Mining.

Continued on page 26

A battery of drill rigs at work at the San José minesite. Photo: Martin Bernetti/AFP/Getty Images.

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DRILL & BLAST

Continued from page 25 “They had poor historical data of the ground, they drilled too hard and too fast and they did not make their own data as they went along.

“When I got there on there on the 16 August, there was probably about ten holes that had already been drilled and none of them were going anywhere near the chamber.”

Brown said the efforts had also been hampered by significant underground deviation, thanks to the mine’s geology.

“In all forms of drilling, even when you drill a hole in your wall, the drill bit will follow the path of least resistance,” he said.

“This principle will govern how much the drill bit deviates from its original direction and it is especially prevalent in directional drilling.

“The ground at San José consisted of mainly hard rock, but it also had layers of softer rock between.

“The drill bits tend to deviate quite a lot when you have these combinations of hard and soft rock.”

At the request of the Chilean Government, Reflex agreed to provide equipment and expertise to help with the search efforts.

Brown travelled to mine, which is located some 45 km north of the city of Copiapó,

Members of the miners’ families watch a video feed of one of the men. Camera probes were sent down the borehole within hours of the initial discovery. Photo: Hector Retamal/AFP/Getty Images.

with a supply of down hole motors, which are designed to correct and control the deviation of the drill bit so it can be used to help the boring.

“The equipment was used there in the same way it would be used in most applications,” he said.

“The only difference was that I was drilling to hit a rescue chamber for some miners, rather than an orebody.

“The chamber was 50 square metres and while I have certainly drilled for targets zones of that size before, they have never been full of people.”

Brown also brought digital surveying equipment with him, which he said was also crucial in ensuring the drilling was heading in the right direction.

“You can use this equipment to triangulate the exact position of the drill bit and therefore plot the borehole,” he said.

“But as I said, the problem was that the historical data of the mine was really poor.

“In one case, I was halfway through a drill and then they told me the target may actually be six metres above those co-ordinates.

Miner Juan Illanes celebrates after arriving at the surface during the rescue. The Fénix capsule took around 30 minutes to complete each extraction. Photo: Nicolas Torres/LatinContent/Getty Images.

26 November 2010

AustralianMining

“So I would shoot for the upper target and then make an attempt at the bottom target.”

Brown said the politics of the situation had a direct impact on how effectively he could drill.

“My equipment is best used to plot a path using the natural deviations to steer the drill to the target rather than to actually correct a deviation after the event,” he said.

“I did some calculations when I first got there and recommended to the Mining Minister [Laurence Golborne] that instead of correcting a badly broken drill hole, we should actually create a new one based on the survey data that I now had.

“He did not want to do that, because politically, the Government needed to be seen doing everything possible, which meant flying over an Australian expert with the latest in technology.

“So we had to go along with that show, which was disappointing, but that was the way it had to play out.”

Despite this, one of the bore holes finally intersected the chamber on 22 August and the miners attached notes to the drill bit to let everyone know they were alive.

Camera probes were then sent down the hole to relay pictures back to the miner’s families, who had been keeping a vigil on the surface.

The images revealed the men were in reasonable physical condition, considering they had endured 18 days trapped in high temperatures and humidity and with little food.

They had been surviving on only tiny morsels of tuna, biscuits and milk every 48 hours.

Brown’s team had to switch to reverse-circulation drilling to complete two other breakthrough holes, because the water used to remove the drill cuttings was flooding the chamber.

“You cannot control reverse-circulation drilling with a down hole motor, so my role changed and I became more involved with the bore design and planning,” he said.

“Overall, if the same thing happened tomorrow, I would do it all the same way again.

“But, I would probably push a little bit harder to have everyone work with the ground instead off against it.”

The rescue The three breakthrough holes were used to ferry the blue plastic containers, called ‘palomas’ (doves in English), which carried food, clothing and equipment.

Meanwhile three large exploration rigs moved onsite to begin constructing the bore that would be used to free the miners.

The rig that ultimately succeeded in reaching the chamber first on the 9 October, a Schramm T130XD Telemast air drill, used the third breakthrough hole as a pilot and expanded it.

The rescues began at around midnight on 12 October, with 31-year-old Florencio Ávalos the first to reach the surface.

One by one, the miners were carried to their freedom in a 54 cm diameter capsules designed especially for the rescue.

The miners’ shift supervisor, 54-year-old Luis Urzúa, was the last man rescued at nearly 10PM the next day.

• Reflex Instruments 08 9445 4020 reflex@imdexlimited.com www.reflexinstruments.com www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Head of the family Boart Longyear has unleased its latest family of rotary heads.

W

ith so many different tasks coming under the broad header of drilling, having multipurpose heads is essential.

Whether down hole hammer drilling or auger drilling, the person at the rig needs to know that their equipment can undertake the task.

Servicing these needs for geotechnical equipment that can take on a wide range of functions, Boart Longyear has released its new family of XRH rotary heads.

The XRH range consists of 12 base models with various motor configurations, with the heads designed for rotary drilling applications from jet grouting through to reverse circulation.

Featuring a unique valve control technology, the XRH heads are able to run two or three motors and seamlessly switch from series to parallel operation, which helps to eliminate low torque start ups after making and breaking joints and the manual shifting of gears.

Ron Hankins, a product manager at Boart, said that the rotary heads are some of the strongest in the market.

The powerful XRH rotary heads are capable of delivering 27000Nm of torque or a maximum rotation speed of 188 rpm.

It covers a wide range of drilling applications, with the heads engineered to safely handle up to 20 000 kilograms of pullback force, providing high performance levels in auger, down hole hammer, reverse circula-

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AustralianMining

The heads feature a hollow spindle with a diameter of 120mm.

tion, jet grouting, overburden and rotary drilling operations.

The heads themselves feature hollow spindles with an inner diameter of 120 millimetres, making it the longest in its class, and making it excellent for passing large jet grouting rods, reverse circulation or double-head drilling where a drifter passes a large inner string through the XRH rotary head.

Hankins went on to say that the heads have an extremely flexible design, and that Boart have “designed these

The heads have a pullback force of 20 000 kilograms.

heads to be easily integrated into a wide range of existing Boart Longyear and competitive rigs, which makes this new technology really accessible to virtually any contractor.�

The XRH heads are designed using components like Eaton Geroler motors, which provide higher efficiency and power than standard axial and piston type motors.

The rotary heads also utilise high strength axial bearings that are designed to handle the increased stress that

comes with drilling at a higher power at faster rates.

Within the head, an auto oiler supplies constant lubrication to bearings independent of rotary head rotation which aids in extending maintenance intervals and eliminates the issue of daily maintenance and having to take a machine out of production. • Boart Longyear 02 9293 2599 www.boartlongyear.com/xrh

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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DRILL & BLAST

Atlas unleashes a menagerie of rigs Atlas Copco unveiled two of the latest additions to its drill rig range at GME.

I

n what has been a busy year for the mining industry as it recovers from the down turn, some have been busier than others.

The recent Goldfields Mining Exhibition saw one of these busy companies, Atlas Copco, unveil two of its latest drill rigs.

This in the wake of the mining specialists’ earlier releases of the brand new down the hole drill rig – the SmartRig ROC D65, and rotary drill – the Pit Viper 235.

These two new rigs debuted at GME, the Simba S7D for long hole drilling in the small to medium range drift size, and the Boomer T1D, are designed to make drilling safer and much more efficient.

Designed as the successor to the Simba 1257, the S7D drill rig has the drilling unit mounted on a boom, which provides it with greater reach and overall versatility.

The Simba is able to be used in a wide range of applications such as long hole drilling, production drilling and when cable bolt holes are to be drilled.

A carousel attached to the drilling unit enables the entire drilling process to be completely mechanised.

Compared to the previous model, it has several new features such as a higher ground clearance; a Tier 3/Stage IIIA diesel engine; a much faster tramming speed; is backwards compatible for parts with the Boomer S1D which allows for easier maintenance, and it also comes with the functionality to carry a water hose reel.

The Simba’s new environmentally friendly Tier3/Stage IIIA engine for the tramming of the rig is also encased in a modern design chassis.

Intrinsically safe, the rig’s cabin meets the requirements of a FOPS approved roof as well as operating noise levels.

Inside of the drill rig, it has a hydraulic direct control system with manual functions.

30 November 2010

Atlas Copco’s new S7D can be used for long hole drilling, production drilling and for bolt holes.

Atlas also unveiled its T1D Boomer at the event.

The hydraulically controlled mining and tunneling face drilling rig comes with a BUT 4B heavy duty boom for fast positioning between holes.

Its hydraulic control system incorporates an anti jamming function Rotation Pressure Controlled Feed.

The feed itself is a BMH 2000 series made of heavy duty aluminium, which has snap on stainless steel sleeves and polymer contacts.

The rig is powered by a four cylinder Tier 3/Stage IIIA approved diesel engine, and has a FOPS approved telescopic roof as well as a hydraulically driven compressor.

It can utilise a COP 1638, COP 1838 or COP 2238 rock drill with a dual damping system, and contains pressurised housing and mating surfaces which reduce internal contamination of the rock drill.

However, these two rigs were not the first new drills that Atlas has released in 2010.

Earlier this year, the equipment supplier launched the SmartRig ROC D65 (known as The Beast) for down the

AustralianMining

hole drilling, and its large hole relative – the Pit Viper 235 series for rotary drilling.

These surface RCS drill rigs have the advantage of satellite and mine plan linked navigation as well as automated feed alignment, rod handling and rig set up.

Initial descriptions of the rigs, in particular its auto-rod

adding where it racks it own rods, was described as particularly impressive.

A number of new technologies were utilised in the rigs, such as cable pull back systems which replaced the previous chain pullback and helped to dramatically improve safety, through to the new break out auxiliary

wrench for rod joint breaks.

The rigs also addressed issues faced with air compressors which consume up to 30% of their rated power just during standby mode, and still use horsepower despite being switched off by the operator.

With these brand new models, operators can now physically disconnect the air compressor from the engine and save horsepower during rod changing, tramming, leveling or even idling.

This has lead to reductions of up to 15% in fuel consumptions.

Despite the high degree of automation available within the drill rigs, for the most part they will still be controlled remotely by operators.

On the back of this, Atlas created training initiatives to service this need for remote control expertise.

In Australia, it began a Master Drill multi tier global training programme and advanced simulator training using modified rigs, during September.

• Atlas Copco 1300 366 880 sue.goc@au.atlascopco.com www.atlascopco.com.au

The ROC D65 drill rigs undergoing public demonstrations earlier in the year. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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DRILL & BLAST

Shock and Ore The development of more accurate in hole ore analysis is set to increase site efficiencies.

I

t has been a non-stop flurry of leaps and bounds in automation , and Atlas has often been seen at the forefront of the movement.

With focus on development of the ‘mine of the future’ and with Rio Tinto’s newly opened remote operations centre in Perth drawing attention to what can be done, many are wondering where the industry will go next.

And Atlas’ most recent output – The OreAlyser – which is the world’s first drill mounted instant sampling and analysis system, is a fairly good indication.

The OreAlyser mineral measuring system is mounted onto the drill rig and works by continuously taking samples from the cuttings as the drill progresses down.

By providing a real time analysis of the cuttings it supplies the mine operators with reliable information relat-

The OreAlyser system provides a real time grade analysis of cuttings as drilling occurs.

ing to the content of the ore, giving them a much wider and precise picture than they could typically access.

This detailed ore information can then be instantly sent to the mine manager and the concentrator plant, as well as

It takes a sample for approximately every metre drilled.

32 November 2010

AustralianMining

the loaders, allowing them to know exactly what to load.

This technology is aimed at solving some of the latent problems and inherent inaccuracy of current in pit ore sampling methods.

“With hole navigation technology, the operator can know where they are drilling, and how deep they are, and now if we add that information on what we are drilling into, then it is possible to put together an update to the mine model that is already in most operator’s mine planning software tools,” Atlas product manager Olav Kvist said It operates on an X-ray based sampling system, using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, or XRF, and has been tested mainly on base metal

ores, with applications in precious metals expected to soon follow the deployment of the mineral analysis system in the base and ferrous metal sectors.

Kvist said that the robust-

ness and overall reliability of systems designed to handle drill cutting samples, as well as perform multi-element calibration and analysis accurately was satisfactory.

Atlas Copco is currently working through issues with the XRF sampling and excessive water in samples.

“Drilling fluids (that are mixed with cuttings) are okay – that amount of water from flushing so far has not been an issue.

“But when you’re drilling into a water table and turning off the dust collector, that’s a harder time, but its all part of the development of the technology, it can handle scanning of wet and dry, but the combination of the two is hard,” Kvist said.

He went on to say that Atlas Copco is currently on the hunt for test partners in Australia.

The system can give a 3D model of the sample area.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

T

he blue riband prize at the Australian Mining Prospect Awards, the Australian Mine of the Year, has once again drawn a very strong field of finalists, including two that made the cut last year.

The winner of last year’s Metalliferous Mine of the Year Award, OZ Minerals’ Prominent Hill copper-gold mine, is one of the returnees.

While last year was the mine’s first since commencing production, this year it has been able to consolidate and focus on improving it operations.

Safety, environmental activities and community engagement have been central to the mine’s performance over the last 12 months.

“The success of Prominent Hill, in a large part, is due to the extremely skilled and dedicated workforce onsite,” the company said.

The company has promoted a diverse workforce and has been successful in achieving a growing representation from local indigenous groups, female employees and the local community.

Also returning is Northparkes Mines from New South Wales, which also won the Highly Commended Prize in last year’s Metalliferous Mine category.

Northparkes Mines, which is a joint venture between Rio Tinto and Japan’s Sumitomo Group, said it had overcome three years of mayhem to boast a successful performance.

“Since 2007, Northparkes has tackled the threat of business divestment, the global financial crisis and the indefinite suspension of work on the new E48 mine,” the mine said.

“As a result of adopting new technology, innovative practices and techniques, the mine has now reached its strongest point in its 15 year history.”

However, there were also plenty of newcomers to finalists table this year around.

A second mine from Rio Tinto, Hail Creek coal mine has already tasted success this year, by taking out the company’s internal global safety award for 2010, recognising a strong performance over the last 12 months.

Energy Resources of Australia’s Ranger Mine, the second largest uranium mine in the world, has also been selected as a finalist for Australian Mine of the Year.

The mine was the winner of last year’s Explorer of the Year Award and has backed that up by achieving record profits and excellent safety results.

As Australia’s largest uranium producer, the mine reached record profits after tax of $273 million in 2009, compared to $222 million in 2008.

The mine also had in safest year in 2009, recording a world-class all 34 November 2010

AustralianMining

AUSTRALIAN MINE OF THE YEAR Sponsored by MMD Australia The finalists in the Australian Mine of the Year Category of the Australian Mining Prospect Awards have all made great strides in safety performance, production and technology innovation. Margaret Tra* reports. injury frequency rate of 0.68 injuries per 200,000 hours of work.

This represented a 33% improvement over the previous year and is part of a strong trend of improvements.

Similarly, Barrick Gold’s Cowal gold mine and Centennial Coal’s Myuna Colliery were also recognised for their strong safety results as finalists.

Cowal gold mine concentrated on enforcing safe work practices throughout 2009 and experienced a decrease in its 12 month moving average total reportable injury frequency rate, from 3.4 to 1.2.

The company also implemented initiatives in reducing water usage, which have made the operation less reliant on the nearby river and have created a positive outcome for the local community.

The Myuna Colliery decided to modify their worker’s behaviour and attitude towards safety after the mine’s lost time injury frequency rate stagnated at 40 in 2008.

The mine encouraged a ‘think before you act’ mentality among the workforce, which has resulted in a marked decrease in the lost time injury frequency rate.

In the 12 months from July 2009

to June 2010, the rate having almost halved from 32 to 18.

CITIC Pacific Mining’s Sino Iron mine and Xstrata Coal’s Tahmoor Colliery have both made the cut after partnering with innovative manufacturers to carry out stand-out projects.

The Sino Iron mine used Enerpac’s hydraulic stand lifting cylinders to install 12 of the largest iron ore processing mills ever built.

The mills were manufactured in China and transported to Australia by ship.

The Enerpac equipment was used throughout the transportation process and to position the mills in place at the mine.

Xstrata partnered with GHD to deliver a track expansion system to allow longwall mining to continue under an operating railway.

The Tahmoor operation has been directly under the railway for the last four years, but required a monitoring system to allow further activity.

GHD developed an early warning system, which has allowed the mine to manage its impacts and the rail to continue operations.

This is a world-first.

Queensland Alumina also initi-

ated an innovative partnership with Mincom to help reduce the inventory at its refinery.

The operation successfully used Mincom’s Critical Inventory Optimisation to slash the inventory at the alumina refinery, which is one of the largest in the world.

As a result, the mine was able to save more than $8 million in expenses.

Gujarat NRE Coking Coal’s NRE Wongawilli Colliery has earning its spot among the finalists after some strong production results.

The mine successfully commissioned the first of two longwall mining blocks in 2009 and has been ramping up production since. *Margaret Tra is the co-ordinator of the Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

AUSTRALIAN MINE OF THE YEAR FINALISTS • Centennial Coal – Myuna Colliery • GHD and Xstrata Coal – Tahmoor Colliery • Gujarat NRE Coking Coal – NRE Wongawilli Colliery • Rio Tinto – Hail Creek • Barrick Gold – Cowal Gold Mine • Energy Resources of Australia – Ranger Mine • CITIC Pacific Mining – Sino Iron Ore project • Queensland Alumina • Northparkes Mines • OZ Minerals www.miningaustralia.com.au

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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.

OS1, 6,000 - 8,000TPH of oil sands commissioned in 2006.

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.

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

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

COAL MINE OF THE YEAR Sponsored by SEW Eurodrive Centennial Coal – Myuna Colliery Centennial Coal’s Myuna Colliery, near Wangi Wangi, New South Wales, is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its safety behaviour program.

In July 2008 Myuna’s Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) was 40.

The company had improved the record in the years beforehand, but the results suggested these efforts had stalled.

In response to this, two initial senior management workshops were held, which led to a decision and commitment from the senior team to renew focus on safety and develop initiatives to reach the zero harm target. The step change program is designed to modify employee behaviour and encourage a ‘think before you act’ mentality into the workforce.

The program has included a three-day safety leadership course for all management and supervisors, a two-day program for all contractor supervisors and a one-day program for all remaining employees.

In addition, the mine has undertaken the Healthy Lifestyle Program, which incorporates individual health monitoring such as diet and fitness assessments and advice. The program also includes manual handling, manual task performance and ergonomics.

According to the company, these initiatives have seen a marked decrease in the LTIFR from 32 to 18 in the twelve months from July 2009 to June 2010.

36 November 2010

AustralianMining

GHD and Xstrata Coal – Tahmoor Colliery GHD and Xstrata Coal are finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for managing rail safety over longwall mines.

The Picton to Mittagong section of the Main Southern and Thirlmere Heritage Railways overlay the Tahmoor Colliery leases and for the past four years Xstrata Coal has been mining directly under the main railway line.

The objective was to design and implement an engineering solution to allow controllable subsidence of a main line railway while maintaining normal rail operations.

The Track Expansion System (TES) project was developed with an engineered solution and a multipleredundancy monitoring system, enabling early warning systems to address any potential problems.

This allowed the rail and mining businesses to proceed without impeding or impacting one another during longwall mining near or beneath the rail corridor.

The goal of the TES was to enable longwall mining to reach previously sterilised coal that could not be safely or economically mined.

According to GHD, the solution is a world-first. With the implementation of this system, longwall mining can now continue unimpeded under railways while maintaining safe rail operations, according to the company.

Gujarat NRE Coking Coal – NRE Wongawilli Colliery Gujarat NRE Coking Coal’s NRE Wongawilli Colliery is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its strong initial production results.

The NRE Wongawilli Colliery is an operational underground hard coking coal mine, located approximately 14 km southwest of Wollongong, New South Wales.

The company started production in February 2008 and then successfully commissioned the first of two longwall mining blocks in August 2009.

On 31 August 2010, the mine achieved its production target of more than 10,000 tonnes of coal mined in a single day.

The company said the milestone reflected its key operating objective of delivering consistent, predictable and sustainable operating performance across its mines.

Together with the company’s other highgrade coking coal mine, a total of 1,133,006 tonnes of coal were produced in the 2009-10 financial year.

In the month of March 2010, the company’s production from both mines was around 200,000 tonnes, which was the highest production level compared with the results in previous months.

The company aims to begin further upgrades to the mine to increase production levels up to three million tonnes per annum by late 2013.

Rio Tinto – Hail Creek Rio Tinto Coal’s Hail Creek Mine is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The mine is located 130 km west of Mackay and around 50 km north-west of Nebo in central Queensland.

The mine is an open-cut dragline and truck/excavator operation mining two high quality coking coal products.

The mine was opened in late 2003 and currently employs almost 700 personnel.

The company strives to build and maintain a strong culture built on safe work practices, innovation and continuous improvement.

According to the company, the team has had to improve its hazard management after enduring several challenges over the last two years.

The mine had to withstand two consecutive major wet seasons, significant growth in equipment across site and a large increase to employee numbers within a very short timeframe.

The mine has also made a commitment to the nearby community by supporting local programs and strong relationships.

This community partnerships program has been established to contribute to the sustainable development of both the local and regional community, as well as the sustainability and success of the business. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Gearmotors \ Industrial Gear Units \ Drive Electronics \ Drive Automation \ Services

The X series from SEW-EURODRIVE Plus size models for heavier applications As a leading technology supplier to the mining industry in Australia, SEW-EURODRIVE is proud to be sponsoring the coal mine of the year award at the 2010 Prospect Awards, recognizing those leading organisations that have made significant strides forward in technology applications in the past year.

SEW-EURODRIVE’s X Series industrial gear units are one such piece of technology that are capable of delivering innovative solutions to improve productivity and processes. The X Series range is available with 15 finely graded sizes – the finest torque gradation on the market – meaning over-sizing of industrial gear units is a thing of the past. As a result, cost and weight are reduced significantly. Power output torques can reach up to 475kNm in which input power can exceed 2000kW, making the X Series capable of handling even the largest loads.

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

METALLIFEROUS MINE OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Atlas Copco Barrick Gold – Cowal Gold Mine

CITIC Pacific Mining – Sino Iron Ore project The CITIC Pacific Mining’s Sino Iron Ore project is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its use of Enerpac’s Strand Lift system.

The mine used Enerpac’s Strand Lift system, to install and transport 12 of the biggest iron ore processing mills ever built.

The mills were originally designed and then manufactured in China and then were transported to Western Australia for installation, which, according to the company, is the first time such enormous facilities have been fabricated and transported internationally.

The mills travelled more than several thousand kilometres by sea and road to reach their destination.

The CITIC Pacific Sino Iron ore project is estimated to have added an extra $75 billion in revenue to the Australian economy over the next 25 years.

The iron ore mine has access to over two billion tonnes of magnetite ore and will be one of the world’s largest mines when it becomes operational.

38 November 2010

Barrick Gold’s Cowal Gold Mine is the finalist for the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its improvements to safety, water use and production and its community involvement initiatives. The mine is located in central New South Wales and began mining in April 2005 and processing in April 2006. Cowal has produced 191,000 ounces of gold in 2008 and 233,000 ounces in 2009. The mine has experienced a decrease in its 12 month average total reportable injury frequency rate, from 3.4 to 1.2. In addition, the company has established a governance structure to recognise the importance of all employees’ participation and contributions. The company’s involvement in several community programs includes the Endeavour Scholarship program, Community Partnering program and the establishment of the Lake Cowal Foundation. The initiatives to reduce water usage have made the operation less reliant on the local river.

AustralianMining

Energy Resources of Australia – Ranger Mine Energy Resources of Australia’s (ERA) Ranger mine is the second largest uranium mine in the world as well as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The company employs over 500 people, including some from the local indigenous communities in Jabiru, Northern Territory.

The miner recorded a net profit after tax of $273 million in 2009, compared to $222 million in 2008.

ERA also initiated a safety milestone campaign which extended safety awareness into the community by providing benefits to employees when they reached their safety targets.

One of ERA’s guiding principles is to ensure the natural and cultural values of the surrounding Kakadu National Park are protected.

ERA also holds the title to the Jabiluka deposit, 22 km north of Ranger.

This deposit is under long term care and maintenance and will not be developed by ERA without the consent of the local people.

Northparkes Mines Rio Tinto’s Northparkes Mines is a copper and gold mine and is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The mine is a joint venture between Rio Tinto and the Sumitomo Group, located in the central west of New South Wales.

The operation has achieved significant milestones through the use of new technology, innovative practices and techniques, which have put the mine in its strongest position in its 15 year history.

Northparkes operates both underground block-cave mines and open-cut mines on its leases.

The project was the first in the country to use a variation of the cost-effective blockcave mining technique in its underground operations.

The ore is processed onsite to produce a copper-gold concentrate and then transported in sealed containers by train to Goonumbla.

According to Northparkes, it has tackled the threat of business divestment, the global financial crisis and the indefinite suspension of work.

Queensland Alumina – Mincom Queensland Alumina and Mincom are joint-finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for their efforts to reduce its inventory.

Queensland Alumina operates one of the State’s largest alumina refineries and has saved more than $8 million over three years by using the Mincom Critical Inventory Optimisation software.

Mincom is a global software service provider specialising in enterprise asset management solutions.

OZ Minerals OZ Minerals’ Prominent Hill copper-gold mine is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards. The company has completed a very successful year of production, finishing with revenue of $1.1 billion.

Established in 2009, OZ Minerals continues to focus on safety and social and environment performance.

The company has committed to the ongoing protection and management of 11,000 hectares of local land. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

EXPLORER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by QMW Atlas Iron – Northern Pilbara projects Atlas Iron is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for the strong results at its Northern Pilbara projects this year.

The company this year increased the iron ore reserves at its Pardoo, Wodgina, Abydos and Mt Webber operations by 50 % up to 53.7 million tonnes.

These projects have an average iron grade of 57.7%.

According to the company, the results will allow the planned production rate to increase from six million tonnes per annum to 12 million tonnes per annum by the end of 2012.

The total reserve figure included a maiden result for the Mt Webber project, which now stands at 19.1 million tonnes at a grade of 57.6%.

The company said these results were crucial to the ongoing strength of their business.

Reserve conversion is also underway at the Wodgina project, in particular at the Avro Resource, where further reserve extensions are expected in the near term.

The company hopes to complete infill drilling at Wodgina and the other deposits at Mt Webber later this year.

40 November 2010

Barrick Gold – Cowal Gold Mine Barrick Gold’s Cowal Gold Mine earned its spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards by implementing new environmental procedures for its exploration activites.

The Ground Disturbance Permit system ensures all cultural heritage and environmental requirements are properly assessed prior to commencing exploration programs in the area.

The mine, in conjunction with drill contractor Boart Longyear, has also installed a purposebuilt aboveground tank system for drilling in environmentally sensitive areas.

The Cowal mine is located in central New South Wales, approximately 32 km north of West Wyalong and 350 km west of Sydney.

The Ground Disturbance Permit system includes a flow sheet and a pro-forma to guide users through the appropriate heritage process.

This includes a location plan, a management of change procedure, cultural heritage reviews and surveys, risk assessments and supervisor approvals.

AustralianMining

Brockman Resources – Marillana Prospect Brockman Resources has joined the ranks of finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its Marillana iron ore project.

The project is located about 100 km north-west of Newman, within the Hamersley iron province in the Pilbara.

Since commencing drilling in early 2007, Brockman has defined a JORC compliant resource estimate of over 1.63 billion tonnes of hematite iron ore mineralisation.

According to the company, more than 1.5 billion tonnes of this is made up of ‘detrital’ mineralisation, which are iron oxide deposits formed by the erosion of existing orebodies.

This is one of the larger iron ore resources in the Pilbara region and is thought to be the largest hematite resource controlled by a junior Australian iron ore company.

Brockman has also undertaken a metallurgical testwork program that has confirmed the technical and economic viability of the project.

The company believes the project could help it become the largest junior iron ore miner in the Pilbara.

Pluton Resources – Irvine Island Pluton Resources is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its exploration of Irvine Island in Western Australia’s Kimberley region.

The island is part of the Buccaneer Archipelago and lies alongside Koolan and Cockatoo Islands, which have both hosted productive iron ore mining for around 60 years.

Irvine Island contains an unmined deposit which contains a resource of approximately 450 million tonnes in two locations.

The island is extremely rugged, remote and, unlike Koolan and Cockatoo, contains no existing infrastructure.

It is also subject to strict cultural, environmental and quarantine controls; the local Mayala people, hold the island in such significance that until now, no company has ever been allowed to explore it.

Pluton has endeavoured to build a strong working relationship with the Mayala community and develop working methods that have no long-term impact on the environment.

Sandire Resources – Doolgunna Project Sandfire Resources is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its Doolgunna copper and gold project in Western Australia.

The high-grade copper-gold Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) centre is located 900 km north of Perth in the Peak Hill Mineral Field.

Since first discovering the centre in April 2009, Sandfire has identified and evaluated four separate VMS deposits in the area.

The current JORC-compliant total indicated and inferred mineral resource is estimated at 10.67 million tonnes, with grades of 5.6% copper, 1.9 grams of gold per tonne and 15 grams of silver per tonne.

This means the deposits could contain 600,000 tonnes of copper, 660,000 ounces of gold and 5.1 million ounces of silver.

Exploration is continuing on-site with three diamond core rigs and a reverse circulation rig.

The company is also currently carrying out a pre-feasibility study for an open-cut mining operation, which will produce 151,000 tonnes material estimated at 25.6% copper and 2.6 grams of gold per tonne. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

MINERALS PROCESSING PLANT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Schenck Process Alcoa of Australia – Pinjarra Refinery Alcoa of Australia’s Pinjarra Refinery is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The company said the refinery is one of the largest and most efficient facilities of its kind in the world and has an annual capacity of 4.2 million tonnes.

Alcoa decided to upgrade the plant’s ten blow-off tans, which had been in operation since the 1970s.

The blow-off tanks were replaced with new vessels designed and constructed with the latest safety systems and features to significantly improve their operating and maintenance efficiency.

The new tanks were built and installed while the existing ones were being disconnected and removed, which ensured production stayed online.

According to the company, the project was like performing open-heart surgery on a live refinery.

The new tanks have a diameter of nearly seven metres and a height of around 15 metres.

They have helped Pinjarra achieve record production in 2009.

42 November 2010

Xstrata Coal – Bulga CHPP Xstrata Coal’s Bulga Coal Handling and Preparation Plant (CHPP) is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for two Australian-first achievements.

The company has successfully installed the first ever paste thickener at an Australian coal mine.

The facility will be used to treat coal tailings.

Throughout the past 12 months the plant has reached notable milestones in productivity, safety and environmental standards.

The CHPP also hosted a study conducted by the Australian Coal Association Research Project (ACARP) titled Impact of Flocculant Addition on Tailings Impoundment.

The company then fully implemented the process to further manage the tailings.

Thanks to these two projects, the Bulga CHPP can claim to be the first coal mine processing plant in Australia to achieve total high clay content tailings disposal with minimal water loss.

AustralianMining

Alcoa of Australia – Residue Reuse Alcoa of Australia earned a spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards by creating commercial products from bauxite residue.

According to the company, converting bauxite ore into alumina creates a significant amount of residue; around two thirds of the ore ends up as a waste product.

However, the company has turned the residue into three potential products; Red Sand, Red Lime and Alkaloam.

Since the residue consists of sand and mud in roughly equal quantities, it can be used in a number of earthmoving, construction and agricultural applications.

The company is focussing on commercialising the Red Sand product first and tests suggest that it could be used as a highquality alternative to construction sands.

The Red Sand could be used as general fill material, construction backfill or as material suitable for road base construction.

The company said Red Lime could be used for salinity control in agriculture and Alkakoam could be used as a soil amendment.

Energy Resources of Australia – Ranger Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards thanks to strong production results from its Ranger uranium mine.

The mine qualifies as the second largest uranium operation in the world, based on its production results over the last years.Production in 2009 stood at 5240 tonnes, which was in line with the 2008 result of 5339 tonnes.

According to the company, this result was achieved due to consistently strong performance in the processing plant and improvements to utilisation, milling rates and process stability. The ERA Plant Operations Technical team formed a joint venture with Rio Tinto’s Technology and Innovation group, the Geometallurgical Improvement Project, to foster these improvements.

The project was introduced in 2009 to improve the processing stability by minimising the variability of the ore that was fed to the plant.In March 2010, ERA achieved record extraction rates of 94.6%.

Rio Tinto – Yandicoogina Rio Tinto’s Yandicoogina iron ore project is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for implementing an innovative system from Schenck Process.

The MULTIRAIL weighing system is designed to provide dynamic control and monitoring as the iron ore is loaded into rail cars, ensuring correct tonnages.

The company said the entire system is fully automated, so it has greatly increased operational efficiency at the project.

CITIC Pacific Mining – Sino Iron Ore project CITIC Pacific Mining’s Sino Iron Ore project joins the other finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its use of Enerpac’s Strand Lift system.The mine used the lift system to install 12 of the biggest iron ore processing mills ever built. The mills were manufactured in China and then transported to Western Australia. The mine has access to over two billion tonnes of magnetite ore and will be one of the world’s largest mines. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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EXCELLENCE IN MINE OH&S

Rio Tinto – Arc Flash Safety

Sponsored by Boom Logistics BHP Billiton – Kalgoorlie Nickel Smelter

BCD Resources

BHP Billiton’s Kalgoorlie Nickel Smelter and Concentrator is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its innovative Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) management system.

The smelter’s PPE assets have a total value of around $1 million and are issued each month.

The company implemented Relegen’s baseLINE asset management framework to simplify compliance, identify occupational health and safety risks and minimise asset shrinkage.

Previously the PPE assets were managed with a paperbased log-book system, which made it difficult to properly track them for safety and financial purposes.

BCD Resources has introduced an innovative system to safely handle harmful sodium cyanide on minesites, earning it a spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The Tasmanian mine’s processing plant uses up to 20 tonnes of sodium cyanide per month to recover gold.

With the previous handling process, there was a risk that plant personnel could be exposed to cyanide dust and contamination.

The new automated system can be operated by a single worker and uses a fully-sealed steel cyanide sparge container, which can contain 20 tonnes of cyanide briquettes and a pumping control system with auto pump and valve actuation.

Interlink Management Systems – Xstrata Coal Interlink Management Systems and Xstrata Coal are joint-finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing the XCN coal mining integrated training system.

The training system is designed to enhance occupational health and safety standards across the organisation.

According to the company, it has been developed to cover both surface and underground operations as well as the coal preparation process and minesite services.

This is a first time that a miner has developed a system that links together national competencies, safety legislation and standards, environmental procedures, operational standards and strategic quality and performance standards.

44 November 2010

Macmahon Contracting Macmahon Contracting has earned itself a spot in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards after developing a safety platform for crusher maintenance activities.

The platform was created to allow workers to much more safely lance tramp metal from gyratory crushers during routine maintenance of crushers at a minesite.

The platform was designed jointly by Macmahon with the help of the mining company and tested under actual working conditions.

According to the Macmahon Contracting, crusher managers and operators have reported that routine maintenance functions are now significantly safer, much quicker and more convenient through the use of these platforms.

AustralianMining

Coal Services – Virtual Reality Training Coal Services is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing an innovative virtual reality training safety solution.

The system was developed to teach safe work procedures to both new and experienced workers in a virtual mine, before they are exposed to the hazards of a real environment.

The virtual reality system can simulate and teach miners about unaided underground self-escape, underground rib and roof stability and open cut truck and shovel operations.

According to the company the technology uses virtual reality platforms compromising domes, curved screens and 360º three-dimensional picture theatres.

Training usually occurs in groups of 12 to 15 people.

CITIC Pacific Mining – Sino Iron Ore project CITIC Pacific Mining’s Sino Iron Ore project is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its use of Enerpac’s Strand Lift system.

The mine used Enerpac’s Strand Lift system, to safely transport and install 12 of the biggest iron ore processing mills ever built.

The system can hoist loads of thousands of tonnes in applications where access is restricted, overhead space is limited or maximum stability is required.

The mills were manufactured in China and then transported to Western Australia, which, according to the company, is the first time such facilities have been fabricated and transported internationally.

Centennial Coal – Myuna Colliery Centennial Coal’s Myuna Colliery mine is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its step change safety program.

The step change program was designed to change employee behaviour and encourage a ‘think before you act’ mentality into the workforce, after it appeared the mine’s safety record had stalled.

The program included courses and training sessions for all levels of staff and the In addition, the mine has undertaken the Healthy Lifestyle Program, which incorporates individual health monitoring.

As a result the colliery has seen a decrease in its Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate from 32 to 18 over the twelve months from July 2009 to June 2010.

Optalert Optalert earned its spot in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards by developing world-first technology to manage fatigue among vehicle operators.

The Optalert fatigue monitoring technology comprises a set of safety glasses fitted with a light pulse that measures eye movement up to 500 times per second.

This can be quantified to represent the driver’s level of alertness and relayed back to the vehicle cab in real-time.

The technology can also warn the driver of the early onset of fatigue before they are even aware they are tired.

According to the company, this allows the vehicle operators to take safety into their own hands.

Rio Tinto has introduced a user guideline to help minesites address the risks inherent in arc flash hazards, earning it a spot as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The company believed safety across the industry could be improved by establishing a methodology to lessen the risk of arc flashes.

Rio gathered equipment and design information from site surveys to evaluate incident energies and arc flash boundaries using its power system model.

Rio Tinto – Hail Creek Mine Rio Tinto’s Hail Creek Mine is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for fostering a strong safety culture among its roster.

Since commencing operations in 2003, the mine has initiated several innovatinve programs aimed at improving safety.

For example, all employees are transported to and from the workplace and their on-site accommodation has been designed with safety in mind.

The mine has also experienced an increase in equipment and employee numbers over the last year.

Hail Creek Mine was rewarded for this strong performance with Rio Tinto’s top global safety award in 2010.

Energy Resources of Australia Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) has earned a spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its safety results.

In 2009, ERA achieved an all class frequency rate of 0.68 injuries per 200,000 hours of work; a 33% improvement on the previous year.

The company said the result was achieved thanks to a commitment to a goal of zero injuries with a strong focus on safety leadership.

The 2009 safety performance has become the new benchmark for further improvements. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT Sponsored by Orica Mining Services Barrick Gold – Cowal Gold Mine

CST Wastewater Solutions

Barrick Gold’s Cowal Gold Mine (CGM) is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its Above Ground Drilling Tanks project.

CGM, in conjunction with drill contractor Boart Longyear, developed a fluid containment and recirculation system for exploration drilling adjacent to the mine.

The project consists of an above ground tank system at the drill rig combined with a ‘mud farm’ setup.

Two barge tanks of approximately 15,000 L each are placed beside the drill rig, one containing the drilling mud mixture and the other fresh water.

The returning fluids are pumped regularly from the collar tray by a flexi-pump back into the larger mud tank to prevent overflowing onto the ground.

CST Wastewater Solutions is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for providing Newcrest’s Cadia Valley operations with a lowmaintenance waste water treatment system.

The environmental management system is in place to ensure the mine can recycle purified human and other waste water.

The Smith and Loveless Fixed Activated Sludge Treatment (FAST) system is designed to handle between 40 and 120 cubic metres of sewage and other effluent from the mine per day.

A conventional suspended growth system allows bacteria to grow rapidly on the media, while the liquid that circulates through the media is clear with low solid levels.

Coal and Allied – Bengalla Mining Company

I-Eco – I-Light

Coal and Allied’s Bengalla Mining Company joins the other finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The company has developed a project that has reduced both noise and environmental impacts of its Run Of Mine (ROM) hopper in Muswellbrook.

The hopper was designed by a team of noise-specialist engineers with key features such as a dual-skinned bin, additional steel plated walls, noise and visual bunds and a noise and dust hood.

Bengalla aimed to achieve a five to 10 dB noise reduction compared to the previous ROM hopper.

Tests conducted by independent noise and vibration specialists concluded the sound levels of the new ROM bin represented a reduction of 29 dB compared to the old ROM hopper.

I-Eco is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing the I-Light, which is said to cut costs and reduce carbon emissions.

The I-Light is an eco-friendly mobile light that gathers energy from the sun via solar panels and then stores it in battery packs.

As the daylight diminishes, the lights are activated automatically and will run on the stored battery.

The lights are manufactured in Australia and use an LED fixture with directional cones around each diode, which allows the light to reach further than the common fitting.

According to the company the lights are built to meet the harshest conditions and reduce costs by 30% to 40% and reduce carbon dioxide.

46 November 2010

AustralianMining

Lunagas Lunagas is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its coal mine goaf gas predictor software project, which can predict the initial gas quantity and decline trend from abandoned or closed mines.

There are more than 1500 closed coal mines in NSW, of which 40 are gassy and still active. Gassy mines emit approximately 80,000 tonnes of pure methane to the atmosphere per annum. Only a small percentage of that methane has been utilised, due to uncertainties regarding individual mine quantities, quality and the time available.

To protect the environment, Lunagas created the predictor for companies or governments to determine alternative methods to better utilise the coal mine gases.

Pluton Resources – Irvine Island Project Pluton Resources joins the finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its commitment to zero impact exploration to Irvine Island.

The island features a pristine environment, so any activity must have the strict approval of the local Mayala people.

The company has therefore developed a special universal drilling platform to support the rigs, which allows vegetation to continue to grow while drilling is underway.

In addition to this, the accommodation pods have all been positioned in level areas with little or no vegetation, meaning there was no need for any earthmoving.

A small desalination plant provides water and all waste and sullage are removed by barge for treatment and disposal on the mainland.

Proof Engineers Proof Engineers is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its real time onboard haul truck system. The company takes the engineering skills used to build suburban roads and applies them to the construction and maintenance of haul roads on mine sites.

At the same time, they investigate, measure and recommend soil stabilising solutions to ensure costeffective and environmentally friendly construction and maintenance.

The technology, The Proof System, measures and monitors road deterioration and rolling resistance on mine sites. This development acts as an early warning system for maintenance procedures before rolling resistance reaches its worst state.

RST – RT5 Superskin project Reynolds Soil Technologies joins the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards RT5 Superskin project, which acts as an ‘eco-dust suppressant.’

The RT5 Superskin is designed to revolutionise dust suppression and can be applied to all forms of exposed stockpiles, ground, sand minerals and tailings.

The technology is a unique emulsion of a cross-linked polymer that is diluted to ultra low-concentrations in water and sprayed onto all forms of exposed stockpiles, ground, sand, minerals and tailings.

It creates a flexible skin that totally binds up all fines to eliminate dust. According to the company the environmentally friendly, biodegradable concept will set a new benchmark for veneer dust suppressants.

RST – Total Dust Management Reynolds Soil Technologies is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its Total Dust Management program.

The company’s seven step solution is used for complete dust management, has secured contracts with Hunter Valley, Bowen Basin and Pilbara miners alike. The seven steps include evaluation, development, communication, implementation, monitoring the results, validation of results and recommendations of further strategies. The Total Dust Management programs provide dust control solutions from the pit to the port for any mining operation that incorporates products, application equipment, systems and support. RST aims to manage all project dust issues to ensure its clients’ can carry on with day-to-day activities.

SRA Information Technology SRA Information Technology joins the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards, for its Real Time Dust Monitoring Website.

SRA Information Technology worked closely with the Port Hedland Industries Council (PHIC) to deliver an innovative, technology-based solution to aid in delivering better environmental outcomes for the local community.

PHIC was established in 2009 with the aim of providing a more coordinated approach in considering and addressing cumulative environmental issues relating to users of the Port.

The initial focus was to deliver improved industry cooperation and coordination of air quality monitoring and management.

The company has been able to assist PHIC by establishing a real-time dust monitoring website in August 2010. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Includes copyrighted material of DigitalGlobe, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

The Excellence in Environmental Management Award

For great strides in sustainable mining

Orica Mining Services is the world’s leading supplier of commercial explosives and blasting systems, and is committed to developing and applying new technologies to achieve productivity, safety, environmental and financial gains for our customers.

We are proud to sponsor the Excellence in Environmental Management Award at the Australian Mining Prospect Awards for 2010. We thank all participants for their time and effort in submitting their entries, and look forward to meeting the finalists in November.

www.oricaminingservices.com

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

CONTRACT MINER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Atlas Copco Australian Shaft Drilling – Kestrel Mine Expansion Australian Shaft Drilling is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its blind shaft drilling work during the expansion of Rio Tinto’s Kestrel coal mine.

The mine is located 51 km north-east of Emerald in Queensland’s Bowen Basin region.

The $1.2 billion extension will add a 375 km longwall to the operations, expand the mine’s capacity from 4.2 million to 5.7 million tonnes per annum and increase its lifespan by 20 years.

Australian Shaft Drilling was commissioned to drill a 230 m deep ventilation shaft with a five metre diameter, establishing a life expectancy of 30 years for the new underground operations.

The company employed a drilling technique which has become increasingly popular in recent years - blind shaft drilling.

By using this technique, the shaft will be completely constructed from the surface, which has a big impact on improving safety and efficiency.

For conventional raise drilling, an initial pilot shaft is drilled from the surface and then reamed out from the bottom up, with requires underground access.

However, for blind shaft drilling, the entire shaft is drilled and then lined with steel and concrete from the surface.

This means workers do not need to go down the hole, which therefore makes the whole operation much safer.

The technique can also be carried out independently from other mining operations, which is why it has become so popular.

According to the company, this means the shaft can be completed before the underground workings are built.

Once the underground workings intersect the ventilation shaft, there will be ready-made air supply in place, meaning the miners can bring in machinery and get to work straight away.

48 November 2010

AustralianMining

Echelon Mining Services Echelon Mining Services is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its efforts to attract and retain new staff in the midst of the skills shortage.

Echelon is a small business that provides specialised and tailored mining engineering solutions to the resources industry.

The company operates offices in Mackay, Brisbane and Perth to service the main hubs of the mining industry.

The company has been experiencing a significant period of growth thanks to the prosperity of the industry on a whole, but has found the increasing unavailability of experienced mining engineers a challenge. Echelon subsequently developed and implemented a number of initiatives focussed on alleviating perceived issues or concerns relating to mining contractor positions within the mining consulting field.The company identified that many potential employees were reluctant to go into consultancy roles because of perceptions the work would involve inflexible hours and conditions, remote job locations and lower remuneration than that offered by mining companies.

As such, Echelon decided to offer autonomous roles which included opportunities for continuous development. The workers could negotiate their conditions to achieve a strong work/life balance by choosing flexible hours, salary alternatives and bonus payments and flexible locations. The company also offered courses such as a Financial Management Program, which helps the employees learn about topics like superannuation, investment opportunities and salary sacrificing.

This has allowed the company to successfully attract and retain quality staff members of all levels from graduate to project manager.

Yolngu Business Enterprise Yolngu Business Enterprise has earned its spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its commitment to employee safety and development.

The company is an earthmoving and mining contractor based in the Yirrkal a District of East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Founded in 1968, it is also one of the largest indigenous-owned companies in Australia.

The company currently has 127 people on the books, including 99 employees and 28 contractors.

Of those, 39 people (29.92%) are of indigenous or Torres Strait descent.

Take out the contractors and the percentage of indigenous employees rises to 38.38%.

The company carries out a variety of haulage, earthworks, residue disposal, environmental rehabilitation and maintenance contracts.

At the time of nomination, the company had not had recorded a lost time injury in two years and so far it has not experienced any incidents that required medical treatment or resulted in restricted work.

There has also been a marked reduction in safetyrelated incidents over the last year, with only nine recorded so far in 2010 compared to 70 in 2009.

The company has recorded only two first aid cases, three instances of equipment damage and two hazards so far this year, compared to 18, 25 and 21 in 2009 respectively. YBE also carries out considerable amounts of training, professional development and community engagement activities.

The company operates a Training and Leadership Centre, which supports training programs, student information sessions and workplace education.

YBE endeavours to indentify the training needs of its employees and track their progress with ongoing performance reviews. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

INNOVATIVE MINING SOLUTIONS

Boulder Buster

Sponsored by BASF Coal Services – Virtual Reality Training Coal Services has joined the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for creating a virtual reality training safety solution.

The system was developed to teach safe work procedures to both new and experienced workers in a virtual mine, before they are exposed to the hazards of a real environment.

The virtual reality system can simulate and teach miners about unaided underground self-escape, underground rib and roof stability and open cut truck and shovel operations.

According to the company the technology uses virtual reality platforms compromising domes, curved screens and 360º threedimensional picture theatres.

Xstrata Copper – Bulk Density Weigh Unit Xstrata Copper has earned a spot among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its Bulk Density Weigh Unit.

The MICO Coreshed used this weighing method to measure the weight of air and water of a diamond drill core to determine its bulk density.

However, the MICO process involved significant inefficiencies, such as a large amount of manual handling and flawed data entry processes.

To solve these problems, the Bulk Density Weigh Unit was developed as an integrated work platform with a motorised weighing mechanism, pump systems and a laptop for data entry.

Thanks to this design, there is a reduced need for manual handling of the core samples and less human error in the data.

50 November 2010

Xstrata Coal – S-Cam Brake Testing

Macmahon – Robotic Shaft Liner

Xstrata Coal has joined the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing a new method to test S-Cam brake systems.

According to the company, these brakes require regular maintenance to ensure they are working correctly.

The current testing method used in the industry is the dynamic brake test.

Research has shown that a truck with defective brakes can still pass the dynamic test, because they do not show that the brakes are working.

Xstrata have pioneered the method of using thermography systems to carry out a simple, nonintrusive check of the brake system.

Macmahon is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for creating a robotic shotcrete shaft liner.

The company said the technology offers an innovative solution to many of the problems associated with applying shotcrete remotely in shafts.

The system was engineered with two principles in mind, enhancing the safety of operators working around an open hole and improving the quality of the final shotcrete lining.

The shaft liner comprises a control room, a dry-mix shotcrete machine, a robot and a deck platform which houses the winch, boom and hose reels.

The machine can work at depths up to 350 m in shafts with diameters betwen 1.8 and eight metres.

I-Eco – I-Light I-Eco is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for a unique solar-powered light tower for minesites.

The I-Light uses battery backs to store the energy collected via the solar panels and will automatically activate as the natural light diminishes.

The light tower uses LED fixtures with directional cones to extend the light further than possible with common LEDs. The company said each light tower will reduce costs by 30% to 40% percent compared to traditional light towers.

Each tower will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 50 tonnes per year.

Because they operate automatically, there is no need for personnel to interact with the lights every day.

AustralianMining

J. Smith & Sons – Smith Mk4 Hydrapede Dolly J. Smith & Sons has earned its spot among the in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing the Smith Mk4 Hydrapede Dolly.

The Hydrapede is a powered dolly which enables mining road trains to haul large amounts of mineral over long distances.

Essentially, the system serves as a second prime mover in a road train, providing extra haul support.

The Hydrapede can be operated in combinations of up to four trailers and at speeds of up to 73 km per hour.

The company said the system is also automated.

The driver simply enables the Hydrapede when starting their shift and is not required to disable it until the end of the shift or for routine maintenance.

Rambor – AFC Longwall Face Drill Rambor has joined the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing an efficient system for longwall take-off operations.

The AFC-mounted Longwall Face Drill (LFD) is designed to quickly and safely provide strata support to the longwall face during a difficult take-off operation.

According to the company, the take-off operations normally present significant safety and economic risks for mining companies.

The machine was developed especially for the Springvale coal mine, which also has some of the most difficult roof conditions of any coal mine in Australia.

The mine was able to dramatically reduce the time needed for such an operation.

ROCK Australia – ROCK MESHA ROCK Australia’s ROCK MESHA product has been recognised as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The MESHA is a mechanised chain link mesh handler that was developed in conjunction with Geobrugg.

The company says the system offers many benefits over traditional welded mesh and shotcrete solutions.

For instance, the machine is much safer because it virtually eliminates manual handling of mesh.

In addition, the system can speed up operations by up to 50% with standard mesh and up to 70% with shotcrete.

The Geobrugg Tecco G80/4 mesh is up to five times stronger than standard welded meshes.

Boulder Buster is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its eponymous rock breaking tool.

The Boulder Buster System is a compact and portable piece of equipment that can be used as an alternative rock breaking tool in underground and opencut mining.

The system is currently being used at various mine sites around Australia such as Ridgeway Deeps, Northparkes and Boddington.

The company said the tool can be used for applications such as clearing draw points.

Alcoa of Australia – Residue Reuse Alcoa has joined the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its work to recycle its production by-products.

The company has developed three potential products, namely Red Sand, Red Lime and Alkaloam, from the bauxite residue created by alumina processing.

The company said the Red Sand product could be used as a high-quality alternative to construction sands as a general fill material, construction backfill or as material suitable for road base construction.

The Red Lime product could be used for salinity control in agriculture and Alkakoam could be used as a soil amendment.

JS Melbourne Controls – Super Water Cannon JS Melbourne Controls is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for creating a water cannon that can spray across a greater area.

The Melbourne Super Water Cannon is designed for applications such as minesite dust suppression and spill control.

According to the company, the cannon can deliver water over a much greater area than has previously been possible.

However, the unit also uses much less water than typical cannons.

The unit is suitable for use with a range of mining equipment, including conveyor systems. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

MINE MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Hitachi Andrew Cole Rio Tinto’s Clermont general manager Andrew Cole joins the other finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

In his role, Cole manages both the Blair Athol and Clermont mines, two operations that are opposite stages in their lives.

The Blair Athol mine is set to close in 2016, while Australia’s newest thermal coal mine, Clermont, only commenced production recently.

Cole has been working to deliver improved safety results and increased production levels.

He has also sought to integrate the workforce of both operations and enhance the sustainability of the local community.

Thanks to Cole’s focus on safety, Blair Athol has been recognised as Rio Tinto’s global safety leader, the company said.

Blair Athol mine is located 20 km northwest of Clermont in central Queensland.

The operation supplies customers in Asia and Europe with up to 12 million tonnes of thermal coal per annum.

Earlier this year, the Blair Athol mine was awarded one of the two Chief Executive Safety Awards for the most improved sites across Rio Tinto’s entire portfolio over 2008 to 2009.

Rio Tinto chief executive Tom Albanese said the operation had demonstrated outstanding improvement in both safety culture and overall performance.

52 November 2010

AustralianMining

Bill Knight Bill Knight is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for his successful management of Alcoa of Australia’s Huntly Central Services over the past five years.

Knight has made a strong commitment to providing a safe work place for his 900 employees.

In 2005, the all injury frequency rate across all of the mining operations reached a total of 35.

However, due to Knight’s commitment, this was reduced to 13 in 2009 and is forecast to be 12 in 2010.

This rate represents a 65% improvement since 2005.

Knight’s ultimate aim is to eliminate all injuries.

He joined Alcoa in the 1980 as an Environmental Scientist, initially involved in various projects such as the construction of the Wagerup refinery.

From 2002 to 2005 he was the manager of that Refinery, which is located 12 km south of Waroona.

He returned to mining in 2005, with a wealth of knowledge and understanding of every aspect of the bauxite industry.

Knight has also initiated a ‘crew sessions’ program, where he conducts a question and answer meeting with each group within the mine, aimed at keeping employees up to date and to encourage feedback.

Brian Grebenc Brian Grebenc, general manager of Barrick Gold’s Cowal Gold Mine (CGM), is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

Grebenc has more than 30 years of experience in both underground and open-cut mining, having transferred from Barrick’s Canadian operations to Australia three years ago.

He has focused on safety, business improvement and systems development to ensure critical mine requirements are tracked and achieved.

The company said Grebenc’s leadership has helped to develop, engage and motivate the workforce.

His passion for safety and his support for safer ways of working has permeated throughout the mine, the miner said.

In 2010, Grebenc has implemented core safety programs including hazard reporting, near-miss reporting and incident investigations.

He also recognised the need to restructure a site development committee for local economic development.

Grebenc was behind the establishment of the General Manager Environmental Safety and Health system, which reports and tracks safety incidents.

CGM produced 191,000 ounces of gold in 2008 and 233,000 ounces of gold in 2009.

The mine commenced operations in April 2005 and processing in April 2006.

Brian Kilgariff Brian Kilgariff is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for his successful management of OZ Mineral’s Prominent Hill Mine over last three years.

Kilgariff has over 20 years experience in mining operations and mineral processing.

The company said Prominent Hill’s successful performance in its first 18 months of operations is a direct reflection of the experienced management team lead by Kilgariff.

Through his dedicated direction and his focus on continued improvement, the plant reached nameplate capacity in the fourth quarter of 2009 and has continued to exceed production estimates, according to the miner.

In addition to its production and financial performance, Kigariff and his team continue to focus on safety, social and environmental performance.

Kilgariff has also recognised that safety needed attention and has implemented programs to the mine.

Prominent Hill began its start-up in early 2009 and the plant moved into first production in February this year.

The mine has also established several initiatives within the community to focus on training, education, participation and local employment.

Kilgariff has a Masters of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Surveying and a Diploma of Metallurgy. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO MINING

Sponsored by Siemens Bob Cameron Centennial Coal managing director Bob Cameron is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for his long-standing success in the industry.

During the last 21 years, Cameron, has taken Preston Coal, a $2 million, 150,000 tonnes per annum mine employing 30 people, and turned it into Centennial Coal, a $2.5 billion company that employs 1650 people and produces 20 million tonnes per annum across 10 operations.

In the 1980s, he was employed

by Coal and Allied to rationalise its unwanted operations.

After selling off several operations, he decided to acquire the Preston mine.

In 1994, Cameron decided to list Preston Coal as Centennial Coal and he raised $20 million to buy three mines from Boral.

The company said it has gained a reputation for seeking out unprofitable, underperforming or even closed mines and breathing new life into them.

One example is the Tahmoor Colliery, which was acquired in 2005 in a near bankrupt state for $340 million and later sold to Xstrata for $480 million.

54 November 2010

Dr John Read CSIRO scientist Dr John Read has earned his place among the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for his effort to improve open-pit geomechanical research.

In 2005, Read brought together representatives from 10 global miners to sign a $2.6 million agreement and research plan with the CSIRO. These mining companies would work with the CSIRO to find better ways to predict the reliability of the rock slopes in open-cut pits. Prior to the agreement, the depth of pits had been steadily increasing, but the design of the slopes had essentially remained the same. The inadequacy of the design had been exposed by a number of spectacular slope failures, which had resulted in multiple fatalities and massive production losses.

Around four years after that first agreement, the joint project produced the 496page Guidelines for Open Pit Slope Design, which was edited by Read.

This is the first publication available to slope design practitioners since 1977.

AustralianMining

Alcoa of Australia – Residue Reuse Alcoa has joined the finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its work to recycle its production by-products.

The company said it produces a significant amount of residue as a by-product of converting bauxite ore into alumina.

Around two tonnes of alumina is produced for every six tonnes of bauxite, so essentially twothirds of the ore will end up as a residue by-product.

The residue consists of sand and mud in roughly equal quantities, according to Alcoa.

However, Alcoa has used the residue as the basis for three potential products; Red Sand, Red Lime and Alkaloam.

The company is focussing on commercialising the Red Sand product first and tests suggest that it could be used as a highquality alternative to construction sands.

The Red Sand could be used as general fill material, construction backfill or as material suitable for road base construction.

The company said Red Lime could be used for salinity control in agriculture and Alkakoam could be used as a soil amendment.

Craig Hagan Interlink Management Services managing director Craig Hagan is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for developing the XCN Coal Mining Integrated Training System.

The training system has been developed with Xstrata Coal and is designed to cover surface and underground operations, coal preparation plants and minesite services.

The system will allow workers to transfer their skills across to different aspects of the operation with greater ease.

Xstrata said this was the first time they had implemented a system that was consistent across all areas of their operations.

The training solution includes links to national competencies, safety legislation and standards, environmental procedures, operational standards, strategic quality and performance standards.

Hagan led the development of the system and ensured it was properly validated by sending it for tests in overseas mining markets, such as South Africa.

Chris Bonwick Chris Bonwick, the managing director of junior miner Independence Group, has made the cut as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

Bonwick has a wealth of experience in the exploration industry stretching back to the late 1980s.

As the regional exploration geologist for Western Mining, he played a key role in several successful projects, especially the discovery of the Redeemer gold deposit near Agnew in 1987.

Nick Giorgetta Regis Resources chairman Nick Giorgetta has been recognised as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for his 40-year contribution to the industry. A metallurgist by trade, Giorgetta has also worked in design consultancy, management and corporate throughout his career.

He worked as a metallurgist for Western Mining for 10 years and then started his metallurgical consultancy practice in Kalgoorlie. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

EMPLOYER OF CHOICE

Sponsored by Blanchard International Centennial Coal – Myuna Colliery Centennial Coal’s Myuna Colliery is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its efforts to improve the safety and wellbeing of its employees.

The mine has introduced a range of programs and training courses in order to improve the health and safety of all employees.

The company’s step change program was designed to foster a 'think before you act' mentality within the workforce and alter employee’s attitudes towards safety.

In addition, a Healthy Lifestyle Program was introduced, featuring individual health monitoring, advice and diet and fitness assessments.

Other safety training, such as manual handling, manual task performance and ergonomics courses, was also offered to staff.

According to the company, these initiatives have helped to nearly halve the Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) from 32 at July 2009 to 18 in June 2010.

Prior to this, the mine’s LTIFR sat at 40 in 2008.

56 November 2010

Echelon Mining Services Echelon Mining Services is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its success in attracting and retaining new staff.

The company identified that many potential employees were reluctant to go into consultancy roles because of perceptions the work would involve inflexible work hours and conditions, remote job locations and lower remuneration than that offered by mining companies.

As such, Echelon has allowed new workers to negotiate their conditions so they can maintain a strong work/life balance.The company also offered courses such as a Financial Management Program to cover topics like superannuation, investment opportunities and salary sacrificing. After 10 years with an average annual growth rate of 20%, more than 20 staff are now working for the company.

Moreover, over the last five years, the company has maintained an average retention rate of 90% and those that left the business stayed for an average of four years.

AustralianMining

Yolngu Business Enterprise Yolngu Business Enterprise joins the other finalists in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its effort to improve employee safety and proffessional development.

The company is an earthmoving and mining contractor based in the Yirrkala District of East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory.

Founded in 1968, it is also one of the largest indigenousowned companies in Australia.

The company currently has 127 people on the books, including 99 employees and 28 contractors.

Of those, 39 people (29.92%) are of indigenous or Torres Strait descent and 23 are local Yolngu.

At the time of nomination, the company had not had recorded a lost time injury in two years and so far not experienced any incidents that required medical treatment or resulted in restricted work.

The company operates a Training and Leadership Centre, which supports certified training programs, student information sessions and workplace education.

MMG – Century Australia’s largest zinc mine, MMG’s Century operation, is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards. The operation, comprising both the Lawn Hill mine and the Karumba Port facility, is staffed by 600 employees and 200 contractors. The mine operates under the Gulf Communities Agreement, which was established

by MMG, four local native title groups and the Queensland Government to provide employment, training and business opportunities for local Indigenous people.

As such, about 23% of Century’s workforce is drawn from local Indigenous Communities, which is one of the highest levels at any Australian mine.

The company also introduced a new fly-in-fly-out structure, which gives employees 47 more days off a year.

The mine has also increased the number of apprentices and trainees from 40 in July 2009 to 58 in July 2010.

Of those, 15 were young Indigenous participants of the mine’s 12-week PreApprenticeship Course in May.

OZ Minerals – Prominent Hill OZ Minerals’s Prominent Hill has been recognised as a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for its efforts to promote a diverse workforce.

The mine has had some strong production results since starting up last year and the company attributes this to the skilled and dedicated workforce on site.

OZ Minerals said it has a growing representation from local Indigenous groups, female employees and the surrounding communities.

Rio Tinto – Hail Creek Rio Tinto Coal’s Hail Creek Mine is a finalist in the 7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards for the employer of choice for the mining industry.

The mine is located around 50 km north-west of Nebo in central Queensland, was opened in late 2003 and currently employs almost 700 personnel.

The mine strives to build and maintain a strong culture built on safe work practices, innovation and continuous improvement. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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7TH ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS FINALISTS

Meet the judges THE following panel of expert judges will determine the winners of each category by ranking finalists based on demonstrated innovation and best practice. For information on the Awards, please email ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au, or call Margaret Tra on 02 9422 2759.

Greg Bondar CEO of The Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA).

GREG Bondar is CEO of The Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) – a position he has held since 2004.

Greg was CEO of the Australian Chamber of Shipping (ACOS) and the Long Distance Road Transport Association of Australia (LDRTA).

He has also been a senior adviser to the Federal Minister for Transport and Regional Development in Canberra from 1996-97.

Greg has an MBA and a Bachelor of Economics and is an associate member of Institute of Quarrying Australia.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

Colin Donegan has a broad operational and technical background.

COLIN Donegan has spent 25 years in the mining industry at manager level or above.

He has extensive experience in open cut mining, blasting initiation systems, mine planning, industrial relations, safety and training system design and implementation, equipment selection and management. Colin has a broad operational and technical background, proven management capabilities and comprehensive legal and contract experience coupled with marketing and operational management experience.

Eric Garner Consultant with URS Australia.

ERIC Garner has over 50 years experience in engineering and project management, mostly related to the development of mining, minerals processing and energy projects.

Garner has held significant engineering and project management positions in Bechtel Pacific Corporation, Kinhill Engineers, and AGC WoodwardClyde.

In 1975 he managed an expansion of the Robe River Iron Ore Project involving expanding throughput by one third, upgrading facilities and opening up a new minesite.

Dr Brian White

Rod Elvish

has experience covering metals, coal, minerals and extractive industries.

WITH more than 50 years in the minerals industry, Brian White Mining Services principal Dr Brian White has experience covering gold, base metals, coal, industrial minerals and extractive industries.

Brian’s experience is across operations, planning and management, academia and consultancy in surface and underground mining.

His academic career has included periods as a full-time lecturer at the Royal School of Mines in London, as Head of Mining at Western Australian School of Mines.

Director and consultant metallurgist.

ROD Elvish is a Director and Consultant Metallurgist. He has extensive experience as a nonexecutive director and in managerial, technical and commercial aspects of the minerals industry. His expertise encompasses a broad range of activities as both a director and consultant, guiding companies through advanced exploration into development, production and product marketing.

He is a qualified mediator and arbitrator. In 1987, Rod, together with wife Monica Biernacki, established the company B E Enterprises.

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AM.NOV10.PG058.pdf

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MINESITE VEHICLES

FUELLING progress The maintenance of a vehicle’s fuel is just as important as maintenance of the machinery itself.

W

hile the maintenance and monitoring of a mining vehicle’s running condition has always been of key concern on site, there has often been an ignored factor – its fuel.

But how well can a vehicle run if its fuel is not maintained as well as the rest of it?

A major, but generally overlooked, problem on sites is the quality of mining machinery’s diesel fuel.

Diesel stored in bulk tanks, drums or in a fuel tank can rapidly deteriorate for a number of reasons.

This degradation can occur through thermal stress (which is caused by recycling heated fuel back into the tank via the common rail) or oxidisation which results in the formation of heavy sediments, gum and of varnish deposits.

Following the release of its STABIL Fuel Stabiliser for petrol engines in Australia, Trico Products has now released Gold Eagle’s Diesel Formula STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser for the Austra-

58 November 2010

AustralianMining

lian market to address these serious problems.

With the addition of a small dosage of the diesel formula STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser to a full tank of fresh diesel fuel, the formula is able to keep it in top condition for around 12 months.

It works by preventing the formation of sludge and sediment while at the same time also helping to remove water from the system, which further inhibits the growth of algae and microbes that detrimentally effect diesel fuel’s working capacity.

On top of this, the fuel stabilising formula also contains agents that work to clean and lubricate the entire fuel system, improving fuel injector operation and engine performance overall.

The stabilisation formula is suited to all diesel engines, and its addition is recommended at every fill up.

Adding it to vehicles that are to be put in storage, unlikely to be used for a length of time or are going to be transported ensures it has a major

Actively reduces diesel fuel degradation.

impact on the fuel quality of the vehicle when it is used again.

Applications for this formula are varied and include all diesel machinery such as mining plant equipment, vehicles and trucks.

The diesel fuel stabiliser comes in two sizes, one treating 1200 litres,

whilst the larger pack treats up to 5000 litres.

• Trico Products Peter Avenell 03 9271 3288 peter.avenell@tricoproducts.com.au www.tricoproducts.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

FCMBT45643MiningFP.pdf

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It takes a travel expert to get you the best mining rates.

At Corporate Traveller, we understand that managing travel for the mining sector requires unique industry expertise.

Mining sites are often harder to access, accommodation options can be limited and site regulations for vehicles mean that car hire is complex. Corporate Traveller understands this and has an unrivalled track record servicing the mining sector. We have more than 17 years mining industry specialisation and actively service over 200 mining clients.

As a mining client of Corporate Traveller, you’ll get access to: • Preferred contracts with over 40 of the world’s leading airlines • Over 40,000 contracted hotels around the world • 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance • Personal account management and a dedicated booking team

Here’s how Corporate Traveller has worked with a leading supplier to the mining industry : Corporate Traveller’s client benchmarking shows Ensign International Energy Services achieved a saving of more than $226,000 on its domestic airfares during 2009 and over $1.1 million for international airfares.

“Through a dedicated group of travel consultants, Ensign International is assured a quality service, which is closely aligned to Ensign International’s safety protocols and to its quality service approach to its business activities.”

Ensign International Energy Services.

$500 credit offer.

Available to all new clients that make three domestic return flight bookings with Corporate Traveller by 31 January 2011*.

Contact our team for more information.

• Strict travel policy compliance • Exclusive value adds

Call 1300 133 019 corporatetraveller.com.au *Terms and conditions apply. 1. This offer is exclusive to companies who a) are not currently clients of Corporate Traveller, b) agree to ensure that all travel is booked through Corporate Traveller and transfer their entire business travel account to Corporate Traveller c) have a minimum annual business spend of $50,000 (incl GST). 2. This offer is only available to companies who do not require management services for private fares or gross fare offers from airlines. 3. $500 credit will be issued after the first three domestic return flight bookings made with Corporate Traveller. 4. $500 credit can be used on any Corporate Traveller air, car and/or land product (a) Credit is non-transferable (b) Credit is not redeemable for cash or foreign exchange. 5. Offer expires at 5pm EST on 31 January 2011. 6. Corporate Traveller have the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Australian OpCo Pty Ltd (ABN 20 003 279 534) trading as Corporate Traveller. Licence numbers: NSW 2TA002547, VIC 32360, TAS TAS160, ACT 18800566, QLD 3124259, NT LTA149, SA TTA192799, WA 9TA1362.

FCMBT45643

AM.NOV10.PG060.pdf

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MINESITE VEHICLES

Tiny terra terror Lifting and shifting the earth in confined spaces just got easier.

C

aterpillar has released its latest range of vehicles, the D Series Mini Hydraulic excavators.

It has unveiled the latest models, the 303.5D; 304D; 305D and 305.5D – all compact radius machines designed to work in confined spaces.

With the model designations reflecting the operating weight of the vehicles (ranging from 3.5 to 5.5 tonnes), these new excavators feature enhanced stability, redesigned work tool couplers, and load sensing hydraulics.

The smaller machines – the 303.5 and 304 – are zero tail swing, keeping the radius of the upper body well within the radius of the track, whereas the slightly larger 305 and 305.5 are compact radius machines that limit the upper body tail swing of the excavator over the tracks to 140mm or less.

On top of this, increased width on the under carriages of the 303.5 and 304 as well as heavier counterweights for the 305 and 305.5, enhances the excavators’ stability and allows for a much greater lifting capacity as well as more effective use of reach and digging force.

This increased stability has enabled a far greater capability than ever before, for handling heavy work tools.

The new redesigned pin grabber type coupler, which comes with a hydraulic operation, combines positive work

Increased stability allows for greater handling of heavy objects.

A bucket rotation of more than 200 degrees improves retention.

tool retention with a construction that maintains tighter tolerances between the coupler and tool, aiding in reducing machinery wear.

Caterpillar’s new excavators also feature a standardequipment two mode auxiliary-hydraulic system, with lines and quick connectors, which can be switched between either single or bi-directional operation to allow the use of work tools ranging from hydraulic breakers through to augers.

The hydraulic system is a responsive load sensing system for lower effort pilot controls and faster cycle times.

Additionally, refined main valves for the larger 305 and

duction has been a key factor in the D series, as its boom and digging arm cylinders have been end dampened to reduce shock loads and material spills.

A bucket rotation of more than 200 degrees also ensures improved material retention at heights, while at the same time making flat bottom trenching easier with less positioning.

Adding to its overall capabilities, the D series comes equipped with, as standard, a dozer blade that simplifies backfilling and site clean up.

A float function allows the blade to follow uneven ground without having to be controlled by the operator.

An optional angle dozer

305.5 increase the hydraulic system’s controllability.

However despite their smaller size, the excavators have not been cut back.

Similar to larger excavators, the D series booms feature a curved design for digging flexibility and have a fabricated box construction for increased durability.

An independent swing boom allows the series to dig next to walls and obstructions; while an optional long digging arm increases dig depth and lift height.

The digging arms are also equipped to facilitate the installation of a hydraulic thumb.

Increasing safety and pro-

blade, which can be angled 25 degrees to either side, adds to its versatility.

Increasing operator control has been a major focus in the development of these excavators, with Caterpillar offering an enclosed cabin with air conditioning and a sliding door system for confined area access, as well as a retractable front window.

The excavators feature an automatic two speed travel feature which shifts the drive system to meet changing torque and speed requirements.

• Caterpillar 08 9377 9444 www.australia.cat.com

W E L D E RS E N E R ATO RS

60 November 2010

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMBRADNOV_10.pdf

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Our Innovation. Your Advantage.

No matter where in the world you mine, you can rely on Bradken Crawler Systems From Design, Manufacture and Sales Support through to Refurbishment and Product Monitoring, Bradken is with you 100% of the way.

bradken.com BRK0048

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MINESITE VEHICLES

Hard rock range An Australian company is developing a range of underground ancillary equipment.

M

Central Queensland

SVS is developing a range of underground vehicles from a common base platform.

Watkinson said that the major point of the vehicle is its capacity for commonality of a base platform across each vehicle.

There were a number of key issues that SVS looked at in the development of the service vehicle.

Firstly was safety, with the design concentrating on how it can best operate in the harsh underground environment, with features such as ROPS/FOPS cabins and passive exhaust conditioning.

wo xp GS nds, e come! weeke Family wel g. tastin

The $250,000 grant from Commercialisation Australia will allow SVS to field validate a demonstration service vehicle.

When it came to productivity, reliability, durability and serviceability the choice was easy, the SVS team of ex Caterpillar/Elphinstone employees selecting Caterpillar componentary.

Watkinson said that one of the significant concepts in the design of the vehicle is the fully integrated Caterpillar powertrain.

It provides the service vehicle heavy duty, high performance axles with inboard wet disc brakes, as well as a maintenance free wheel end spring applied emergency brake system.

It will utilise a high horse power engine, electronic shift transmission combined with a lock up torque convertor that automatically engages and disengages direct drive, providing greater performance and efficiency.

This combination of horsepower and the lock up torque convertor provides excellent rimpull and speed on gradients, increasing productivity.

Structural designs of the vehicle are nearing completion, with vehicle control and braking systems designed with the powertrain.

The vehicle is scheduled to start assembly in December with a delivery in the first quarter of 2011.

• Specialised Vehicle Solutions Mal Watkinson 03 6431 4606 mal.watkinson@svs-group.com.au www.svs-group.com.au

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ND A L S N EE U Q L A R T today: www.health.qld.gov.au/workforus or enquire Submit an Expression of InterestE N C

about opportunities on FREECALL 1800 000 093 or email workforus@health.qld.gov.au 62 November 2010

AustralianMining

CQ270910AMine

aintaining and servicing a mining vehicle is a hard enough task, but it is much more difficult when the machinery itself is located deep underground.

With such a wide range of vehicles operating underground it can be complicated to keep them all in effective running condition.

To combat these critical issues of machinery maintenance on site, Australian company Specialised Vehicle Solutions (SVS), through the assistance of a Government grant, is commencing the design and manufacture of a service vehicle designed specifically for underground hardrock mining .

Speaking to SVS manager Mal Watkinson, he told Australian Mining it intends to develop a range of vehicles dedicated to servicing a swathe of underground mining applications.

The vehicle’s primary applications would include machinery such as explosive charge equipment; shotcreters; scaling equipment; personnel transport; tyre handlers; and underground light vehicles to name a few.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMPIRAUG_10.pdf

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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

AM.NOV10.PG064.pdf

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MINESITE VEHICLES

Mobilised for

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

The Hunter Valley division of Bradken has decided to pursue a more holistic, handson approach to customer service.

Michael Mills reports.

C

apital equipment manufacturer Bradken has designed a new support vehicle which can provide comprehensive Ground Engaging Tool (GET) change-out service.

The specialist vehicle has been fitted out with all the equipment needed to perform on-site monitoring, service, repairs and GET change-outs.

Darryl Pyne, who manages the company’s mining services team in the Hunter Valley, said the vehicle was conceived out a desire to offer better customer service.

“We already have approximately 12 other field service vehicles as well as two 20 tonne Franna cranes [for customer support], but these are not dedicated to Ground Engaging Tool (GET) change-out,” he told Australian Mining.

“Some of those vehicles have some of the necessary equipment to do parts of the job, but none of them can do it all.

“We also used a lot of onsite equipment in the past,

64 November 2010

so we brought that all together to offer a one-stop-shop style service.

“Customer service was a big factor and we pride ourselves on offering this style of support.”

According to Pyne, the vehicle was first conceived after discussions with a key client.

“They wanted to ensure monitoring, repairs and changeout on their site was managed in a consistent and safe way, with the least downtime possible and by people with the right specialist training,” he said.

“So by developing this vehicle, we have actually taken responsibility for the GET change-out off the guys at the minesite so they can concentrate on their core business, mining.

“Furthermore, on machine down days we can offer the full service to the bucket.”

The vehicle is fully equipped with a welder and air compressor unit, non-destructive testing equipment, a vehicle

AustralianMining

The GET support vehicle comes equipped with a loading crane, an air compressor and welding unit and all the necessary non-destructive and thickness testing equipment.

loading crane, stainless steel tool box, a GET transport crate, thickness testers and all the various types of pin-removal tools needed for change-outs.

The vehicle is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to manage both routine maintenance and emergency calls.

The addition of the welder and compressor unit will allow the field technicians to make wear package repairs and fix cracks on the spot, Pyne said.

Similarly, the non-destructive testing equipment will help them pinpoint areas that require immediate repair and provide regular wear monitoring.

“All of our field service personnel are boilermakers

and welders by trade and are all fully-trained in GET maintenance, so they are very qualified to take on all of the tasks,” Pyne said.

“They are also well-trained in all the proper safety procedures.”

“The company’s primary focus is on safety, so our fitout for the vehicle started with a loading crane and security cages.

“Any parts can be loaded, transported safely to the site and then easily unloaded.

“The company also has a firm policy on environment protection, so any worn GETs loaded onto the vehicle will be safely recycled.”

According to Pyne, Brad-

ken is the only equipment manufacturer that offers anything approaching this level of support in the Australian market.

“Additionally, no other manufacturer has the same workshop facilities to back up those services as well,” he said.

“We will be tailoring all of our other already-existing vehicles to mirror this one as the business grows.

“Eventually this will be the main type of vehicle offered to the market.”

• Bradken 02 4941 2600 mining@bradken.com.au ww.bradken.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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LeTourneau Technologies

Stellar results earn export gong

D

uratray International has taken out the Minerals and Energy Award at this year’s Governor of Victoria Export Awards after recording impressive sales results for its Suspended Dump Body (SDB) technology.

The SDP is a flexible rubber tray for off-road heavy haulage mining trucks, which is designed as a longerlasting, environmentally responsible alternative to traditional steel trays.

The product is currently exported to around 30 countries across five continents.

Sales of the SDB increased by 57% to $5.2 million over the last 12 months, with 48% of the growth attributed to export markets alone.

According to Duratray chief executive Marco Medel, the strong figures are a result of an increased focus on those export markets, with the company recently entering Africa, Mongolia and Israel.

“The 2009-2010 financial year has been the company’s strongest yet and we are delighted to be acknowledged as a leading industry innovator in the global mining sector,” he said.

“We are committed to continuously working to refine and further develop the sustainability and effectiveness of the SDB. “The increasing international demand for our unique product has meant that

we will also be expanding our manufacturing facilities over the next twelve months to double our production capacity.”

Victorian Minister of Industry and Trade Jacinta Allen said the award recognised the company’s commitment to creating cutting-edge technology for the global mining industry.

“Duratray International is a great example of how unique products can position Victorian manufacturers at the forefront of globally significant sectors such as minerals and energy,” she said.

The company has been manufacturing and exporting the SDBs to the global mining industry for the past nine years.

“The export market is a vital component of our business and one which we are fully committed to developing,” Medel said.

“With increased capacity through our expansion we will be able to fully realise a world of opportunities for the SDB over the coming years.”

The company will now be in the reckoning for the Australian Export Awards on 1 December this year.

• Duratray International 03 8761 2800 info@duratray.com.au www.duratray.com.au

The future is here!

Sherval 10/163

The manufacturer of a durable, eco-friendly rubber tray for minesite dump trucks has been recognised with a prestigious industry award.

A new leader in the 140t class.

The perfect match for 150t and 200t trucks.

New generation diesel-electric hybrid drive.

Fuel savings of up to 40%. Ease of maintenance.

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Brisbane: (07) 3902 9000 Blackwater: (07) 4986 1912 Mackay: (07) 4952 2539 Muswellbrook: (02) 6541 1149 Paraburdoo: (08) 9189 6030 Perth: (08) 6272 5500 The Suspended Dump Body was designed as an alternative to the traditional steel trays found on minesite dump trucks. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.NOV10.PG066.pdf

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MOTORS & DRIVES

The conveyor system needed eight identical drive units to keep it running.

“These gears are some of the largest SEW has supplied to Australia,” Jaryn said.

Conveying a FULL RESURRECTION When Gujarat NRE needed a massive conveyor system, it needed a massive drive system to keep it moving.

R

esurrecting a disused mine brings up a raft of challenges.

Excavating coal from the mine’s walls is only part of the difficulties faced in modern underground mining.

Logistical constraints associated with transporting the material from the coal face to the surface –via an array of tunnels and shafts of various sizes – dramatically impacts upon a mine’s overall production capacity.

In particular, the effectiveness of a conveyor system has a major impact on a project’s material handling capability.

On top of this, these bulk materials handling facilities need to be rugged enough to continuously operate in harsh underground conditions.

Gujarat NRE Coking Coal faced these problems when it was attempting to revive a closed down coal mine in New South Wales.

When Gujarat acquired the disused mine at Russell Vale, near Wollongong, it looked to leverage the latest advances in longwall mining technology to change what was previously an uneconomically viable coal mine into a profitable one.

66 November 2010

It found that it had to engiA Toshiba 700kW motor neer a completely new conveyor and a Voith scoop controlled system to handle the mine’s TPKL-R fluid coupling were forecast production levels. free-issued by Ellton for each For this it approached drive unit.

Ellton Conveyors.

SEW-Eurodrive also supThe technology company plied its X-series foot-mounted was brought in to design, bevel-helical gear units, rated supply and install four con- at 156kNm, as well as purpose veyor systems for the mine. designing the drive bases on To ensure the conveyors which to mount each comhad the power to transport pleted drive assembly. the materials, Ellton turned Kris Jaryn, SEW’s industo SEW-Eurodrive for the drive trial gears NSW product manunit assemblies. ager, said that it was necesAccording to Ellton sary to closely match the gear Group’s managing director Mark Elliot the coal “These are seriously large mine needed four new 700kW drives for an conveyor systems, each of which had to be powered underground application.” by two drive units.

To “get the mine back into unit to the motor and fluid production, we found it was coupling, and to customise necessary to install a compre- this to meet Gujarat’s Russell hensive set of modern mate- Vale application demands. rial handling and transfer “This project was unique equipment,” Elliot said. due to the size of the equip“The four conveyor sys- ment that is being used, and tems will carry all of the mined these are some of the largest coal from the face right through gearboxes that SEW has supto the mine portal access at plied to the mining industry ground level.” in Australia,” Jaryn said.

Undertaking the task, SEW Each gear unit was supplied delivered eight identical drive with steel axial fans and rigid units comprising of a motor, couplings, and was then custom gear unit, fluid coupling and fitted with a Hydrac oil-level a drive base. sight-glass as well as an oil

AustralianMining

resistance temperature detector (RTD).

“The RTD allows the temperature inside the gearbox to be continually monitored,” Jaryn explained.

“This then enables a preprogrammed PLC to provide a warning signal if the gearunits exceed a set temperature, which helps to ensure that they are always operating under optimal conditions.”

The drive bases for the complete drive assembly were designed in Melbourne and manufactured just north of the mine, in Sydney.

The drive units themselves, which weigh in at close to 14 tonnes each, were also assembled and laser aligned at the Sydney facility.

The first two drive units have already been completed and delivered to the Gujarat NRE Number One Mine at the Russell Vale site, where Ellton proceeded to install them into the first of the site’s new conveyor systems.

“This conveyor was installed and commissioned without a hitch, and has now been running smoothly for a while now,” Jaryn said.

An additional two complete drive assemblies have

also been delivered in preparation for the next phase of infrastructure installation.

The remaining drive units and conveyors will be brought to the site over the coming months as the conveyor systems need to be installed in line with the development of the coal mine.

Elliot explained that they chose SEW as it provided a complete drive package solution, regardless of the size of the gear units required.

“For this project we needed a solutions provider that could supply suitably sized drive units to operate the large conveyors needed to meet Gujarat’s requirements.

“These are seriously large drives for an underground application; there can’t be too many 700kW drive modules operating underground in Australia today,” he added.

The commissioning of the first new conveyor paves the way for installation of the remaining systems, as the mine finalises its preparations for full production.

• SEW-Eurodrive Ian Tribe 03 9933 1000 www.sew-eurodrive.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMTOSJUN_10.pdf

Page

1

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PM

Introducing…

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VICTORIA Toshiba International Corporation Pty Ltd 411 Ferntree Gully Rd, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149 Tel: +61 3 8541 7960 Fax: +61 3 8541 7970 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Toshiba International Corporation Pty Ltd 10 Anderson Place, Perth International Airport, WA 6105 Tel: +61 8 6272 5600 Fax: +61 8 6272 5601 www.toshiba.com.au Toshiba International Corporation Pty Ltd ABN: 29 001 555 068

AM.NOV10.PG068.pdf

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MOTORS & DRIVES

Working in harmony Rockwell Automation’s Peter Tomazic writes on harmonic distortion within the industry

T

he presence of harmonics can drastically alter the quality of power provided to equipment.

A form of invisible electric ‘pollution’, harmonics can effect electrical networks facility wide and are presenting an increasing problem for the mining industry.

The main problem with harmonic distortion is the increased supply current requirement it causes, and the associated concerns of component overheating, nuisance tripping and subsequent equipment malfunction.

Drive harmonics can also cause noise transfer to other loads and can also result in communication interference.

Harmonics itself is generated by an alternating current Variable Speed Drive (VSD) when an alternating current power supply is rectified to direct current.

This type of load – often referred to as a non-linear load – includes computers, servers, HVAC

68 November 2010

AustralianMining

units and variable speed drives.

As the use of VSDs become more prevalent in the mining industry, harmonic distortion is becoming more widespread.

The sum of all harmonics The wave forms of the current drawn of linear and non-linear loads are very distinctive.

Where the current is drawn by a linear load it takes on a typically sinusoidal form, where as non-linear loads such as VSDs create a non-sinusoidal waveform.

The non pure sine shape of this waveform is a direct result of the harmonics generated by the input of the variable speed drive.

Each non-linear load will generate a number of harmonics.

The harmonic ordinal denotes how many cycles of the harmonic current occur within one cycle of the fundamental.

For example, the fifth harmonic will have a frequency five times that of the fundamental current.

It should be noted that harmonics are always odd numbers, and that the third harmonic is generally negated by a transformer with a delta secondary.

When the sum of the harmonics is combined with the fundamental, the resultant curve can be determined.

Harmonic distortion is commonly expressed by two ratios – Total Harmonic Disortion (THD) and Total Demand Distortion (TDD).

THD is a ratio of the harmonic current over the fundamental current, whereas TDD is the harmonic current over the full load capacity of the system.

At full load the THD and TDD will be even, but as the current drawn diminishes the THD will increase while the TDD decreases.

Meeting the standards Despite widespread experience of Continued on page 71

The curve for linear and non-linear wave forms.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMBALDNOV_10.pdf

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…when you have big things to move…

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AD_AMWARDNOV_10.pdf

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1

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AM

GROUND BREAKING IDEAS

Leveraging the collective talents of more than 12,000 employees is not something we do for just our clients. Every day we challenge our employees to think with open minds by creating rewarding experiences and preparing them for the next adventure in their career.

Tetra Tech is a leading provider of specialised geological, geotechnical, environmental, and mine engineering services to the mining industry. Tetra Tech’s spectrum of technical expertise includes research and development, applied science, engineering design, construction management, operations support, and site reclamation—supporting sustainable mining throughout the complete mine life cycle.

www.tetratech.com

AM.NOV10.PG071.pdf

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MOTORS & DRIVES

Continued from page 68

tion from the transformer down.

Preliminary harmonic analysis is crucial to determine exactly what harmonic distortion is currently being generated and what THD will be expected with the addition of a new drive system.

If current harmonics are an issue, a line reactor or DC link choke should ideally be added where possible to any unbuffered six pulse drive or group of drives.

On multiple drive systems, an

harmonic distortion throughout the industry, there remains a great deal of misunderstanding regarding harmonic standards and how these can be met.

A number of standards already exist to address the side effects of harmonics, but their general intent remains the same, to prevent one user from disrupting a neighbouring user’s line voltage.

However, these are interface standards rather than equip- One of the best harmonic ment standards and are not distortion mitigation solutions concerned with impacts within available is an active filter. a facility.

The principal differentiator between current and voltage active filter may often be a better distortion is that the current THD alternative. remains constant throughout a An active front end should be system, whereas the voltage THD considered if the application requires will be greatest at the load and will regenerative operation and where diminish as it gets closer to the harmonic compliance is an imporsupply transformer. tant issue.

Theoretical harmonic THDs Practical guidelines can be predicted using spreadsheet In order to achieve harmonic compli- tools, and generally are best utilised ance, there are a number of prac- to predict distortion for new instaltical recommendations that need lations to enable mitigation measure to be considered. to be incorporated early on.

To ascertain the effects of installing a given drive, it is neces- Mitigation methods sary to analyse an entire installa- A number of solutions are avail-

able to mitigate the unwanted effects of current harmonics.

The magnitude of the current THD will vary with load and with every application, and for a simple six pulse drive without any mitigation or DC link choke, the harmonic current may be over one hundred percent of the fundamental current.

The use of either a VSD with a DC link choke, or adding a line reactor to the input of the drive or a combination of both will make a significant difference, and on a six pulse drive may reduce the THD by twenty five percent.

Similarly a passive harmonic filter installed between the transformer and drive can reduce THD current by five to eight percent.

However, one of the best harmonic mitigation solutions available is an active filter.

This is an intelligent device that counter injects currents to offset the measured harmonic currents. • Rockwell Automation Peter Tomazic 03 9896 0300 www.rockwellautomation.com.au

The cost and effectiveness of mitigation options.

Electric motor rewinds repairs

As a long established specialist supplier of specialised power generation equip

highly ment to the Australian Defence Forces, our

workshop is geared for exceptionally high standards. This means an ability to rapidly respond to your electric motor breakdowns and provide a solution to meet your standards, based on repair, rewind or a new replacement motor. We understand your problems, the need for a prompt response ... and the difference this makes for you.

We also manufacture ground power units, load banks and test / repair generators.

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19 Fiveways Boulevard, Keysborough, Victoria. 3173 Australia AustralianMining

November 2010

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AM.NOV10.PG072.pdf

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MOTORS & DRIVES

Walk the Torque Safe motors for dangerous environments, Margaret Tra reports.

P

ower Torque has developed a range of specialist engines based on the JCB DieselMax series to provide safe power for dangerous work environments.

Distributed by Power Equipment, the specialised engines include the JCB DieselMax 444 and the JCB DieselMax 444TCI. The JCB DieselMax 444 engine has been converted into the PP854 model that develops 63kW (83hp) at 2200 rpm.

The PP1254 is based on the JCB DieselMax 444TCI and intercooled engine which produces 93kW (125 hp) at 2200 rpm.

They are suitable for use in areas such as oil and gas, paint chemicals and solvents, dust, mining, airfields and munitions stores.

Power Equipment’s business manager Noel Heritage told Australian Mining that JCB DieselMax differs from other drive systems because they are state of the art engines.

“They are designed from a clean sheet of paper, by some of the diesel engine industry’s leading designers from the last ten years,” he said.

“These diesel engines are able to operate in Zone 2 hazardous areas, and feature an external operating temperature of less than 200°C. “The lower external operating temperature, combined with additional shut down

features, optimises its use in areas where there is a strong potential for fire or explosions.”

The engines can be used for hydraulic power packs, air compressors, high pressure water jetting, wireline winches, coil tubing units, nitrogen units, generators, cranes and more.

JCB DieselMax has been used in JCB built construction machinery for six years.

The company claims that the series will benefit the mining industry by providing exceptional fuel economy and low emission levels, which can be used in a wide range of applications.

“These engines are true heavy duty engines, with a high power to weight ratio, and exceptional fuel economy,” Heritage told Australian Mining.

In 2010 Power Equipment Pty Ltd was appointed as the Australian Distributor of the JCB DieselMax series engines in Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea and the South Pacific.

• Power Equipment Noel Heritage 03 9709 8500 noel.heritage@powerequipment.com.au www.powerequipment.com.au

The motors can operate in Zone 2 hazardous areas.

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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Email sales@brevini.com.au

AustralianMining

www.brevini.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMABBNOV_10.pdf

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When safety has no equal.

By choosing ABB’s automation solutions you select a unique line up of advanced technologies and expertise. This provides our customers with energy efficient and high reliability products to improve productivity and safety.

This includes best in class solutions in: - Motor starting and speed control - Rotation and generation - Engineering and packaging - Electrical distribution and protection - Robotics and automation - Automation and power management - Technical service and training This unique combination of products, systems and services provide superior value to our customer’s operations in the resource, industrial, utility, commercial and residential building sectors.

ABB Australia Pty Limited For enquiries phone: 1300 782 527 www.abbaustralia.com.au

AM.NOV10.PG074.pdf

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PRODUCT FOCUS: PUMPS, PIPES, VALVES & COMPRESSORS

Rotary lobe compressor AERZENER Maschinefabrik has released the first rotary lobe compressor. It offers new possibilities for generating positive pressure of vacuums in air and neutral gas applications. The Delta Hybrid series has the advantages of energy savings up to 15% over conventional compressors; very wide flow control range from 25% to 100%; a robust bearing design; and low compressed air discharge temperatures due to heat management, compact design, side by side installation, and automatic belt tension via a hinged motor mounting

plate. It allows for operational and maintenance access from the front.

The series covers a flow range of 110 to 4100 m3/h with 12 machine sizes and – depending on size – for positive up to 1500 mbar .

• Hull Nu_way Peter Wallach 1300 556 380 salesenquire@hnw.com.au www.hnw.com.au

Has flow range of 110-4100 m3/H.

Close coupled shaft VANTON has unveiled its latest thermoplastic pump, the Sump-Gard SGK PY800SP. The pump features a close coupled, cantilevered shaft, which reduces headroom requirements and eliminates immersed bearings. By having a hard coupling of the drive shaft to the motor shaft, it reduces the height above the mounting plate by about 50%, and this then allows the pump to fit into compact and restricted areas that are commonly encountered in replacement and OEM applications, while at the same time Reduces also lowering the pump’s centre of gravity. In using a headroom. cantilevered, large diameter shaft, it has eliminated the need for immersed bearings which are prone to fail in acidic, abrasive and caustic applications, while allowing run dry operations with no damage to the pump.

All of the wetted components, including the heavy wall shaft sleeve, are molded from solid polypropylene, PVDF or CPVC, which aids in eliminating corrosion that is typically associated with pumps constructed from stainless steel and high alloys, as well as delamination and wicking related to plastic lined and fibregalss pumps. On top of this, as all the wetted surfaces are chemically inert, the pumps are also rated for handling reagent grade chemicals, high purity water and other fluids that must remain free of contaminations. The pumps are available in lengths up to 1.2 metres, with motor power of 37kW. It can handle flows of up to 3028 lpm and heads of 55 metres at temperatures up to 135°C. • Vanton webinfo@vanton.com www.vanton.com

Bore pumps SCHLUMBERGER has debuted its Reda Maximus ESP systems for bore pumps. Designed to reduce early failures and extend running life, Schlumberger has engineered an easy plug and play wellsite assembly process. It features a MaxLok pothead design which eliminates the taping of electrical connections and reduces the time needed to make the connections. Its Maximus protectors and motors are factory oil filled Has a MaxLox with a high dielectric oil and incorporate the new pothead.

MaxJoint ESP connection technology to preserve the factory filling while also avoiding trapping air during field connections. In addition, it comes with in built features such as self lubricating polymer lined bearings, spring loaded keyed bearings (to avoid spinning bearings), filters to ensure clean lubricating oil, a full steel motor design. It is able to operate with a motor running temperature of up to 204º Celsius.

• Schlumberger Australia 08 9420 4800 als.apg@slb.com www.slb.com

74 November 2010

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www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.NOV10.PG076.pdf

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PUMPS, PIPES, VALVES & COMPRESSORS

Keep it FLOWING An adjustable lubrication pump ensures that the industry doesn’t grind to a halt.

L

ubrication really is the life blood of the mining industry. Without it, the entire industry would literally grind to a halt.

Effective lubrication is a key issue right across the site, from the massive mining haul trucks through to the conveyors moving heavy materials, if the lubrication fails to make it where it is needed the results are wrecked machinery, and expensive unscheduled downtimes.

Rugged lubrication pumps are especially important as the industry moves towards greater automation and requires pumps to work in ever harsher conditions as the machinery is pushed further.

To keep the mining industry turning, Graco has unveiled its latest lubrication pump, the G3 Electric pump.

With a flexible design, which includes adjustable pump elements as well as an ability to work with both injector based and series progressive systems, the G3 is designed to serve

multiple applications through the resources industry.

In removing the person from the equation as automation becomes more prevalent, a reliable heavy duty lubrication pump which can easily be adjusted to suit changing machinery use is needed.

This new pump features three control options, which has resulted in additional flexibility for easy lube system set up and operations.

The G3 combines performance with advanced user controls.

This allows the G3 to cover a very wide range of applications and gives the operators the ability to easily customise the lubrication cycle to meet their individual needs.

The G3 Pump has several substantial advantages, including: • Powerful pumping performance – which can be used with customers’ grease of choice; • Advanced flow dynamics – which helps to prevent grease separation;

Ensuring lubrication is pumped to the correct points is integral in mining.

• Load minimising drive – for longer life; • Adjustable stroke pump – ensures a custom fit; and • Advanced user controls for its class – this allows users to customise and potentially automate the lube event to the customers’ unique needs.

The G3 pump has been designed to deliver high performance results in

real world application conditions as well as meet the challenges of changing grease types, changing temperatures and challenging installation requirements.

• Graco 03 9468 8500 csaustralia@graco.com www.graco.com

LIGHT LIFTING RANGE

Konecranes range of light lifting products set the standard for efficient, compact and reliable lifting.

The XN electric chain hoist has a lifting capacity ranging from 50kg to 5,000kg, and is complemented by lightweight modular crane systems, jib cranes, push and electric trolleys, explosion proof hoists and a belt hoist for ‘clean room’ applications.

In November and December, Konecranes will be offering special deals on selected XN hoists. For more information contact one of Konecranes 26 service locations.

Australia – 1300 937 637 New Zealand – 09 634 5322

www.konecranes.com.au

76 November 2010

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMVICNOV_10.pdf

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Victaulic Coupling for standard shouldered pipe

Cuts installation time in HALF. The Style SC77, the new Flexible Coupling for Shouldered Pipe, features Victaulic patented “installation-ready� technology.

Installation-ready means there is no need to disassemble the coupling, and no loose parts to drop or lose.

Bottom line, a new way to join shouldered pipe that saves time and money, from the originator of mechanical pipe joining systems.

For more information, contact Victaulic at: 1-300-PIC-VIC (1-300-742-842) (Callers from Australia) 0-508-PICK-VIC (0-508-7425-842) (Callers from New Zealand) vicaust@victaulic.com Or visit, www.victaulic.com

Victaulic1015539.indd 1

30/09/2010 09:38:34 CLIENT:

Victaulic

PUBLICATION:

Australia NZ

AM.NOV10.PG078.pdf

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PUMPS, PIPES, VALVES & COMPRESSORS

Processing pump pains Steps are being taken to remedy some of the inherent problems pumps face in minerals processing.

S

afety is an integral part of the design of any mining pump. And it is a top priority in the design of GIW MDX slurry pumps, which operate in some of the most severe conditions in mining.

Pumps within the minerals processing industry often work within a harsh environment; which takes a heavy toll on the machinery.

A number of MDX pumps are currently deployed in copper processing facilities.

Through processing the copper ore, the aim is through conminution to extract copper from the crushed ore as it is reduced to a consistent particle size.

However, this important mineral processing procedure can create a unique safety hazard in a slurry system.

Importance of ball mills After ore is delivered to the plant it is ground in the grinding circuit to extract the copper.

It is crushed using grinding mech-

anisms such as ball mills, which have large steel balls that are often as large as 15.24cm across.

As the ball mills and slurry rotate within the grinding mill and the weight of the balls crush the ore, the smaller particles are removed from the circuit by a computer controlled system, as the larger particles are again passed through the system to be further reduced down in size.

After this the heavy duty pumps move the ore slurry through the grinding circuit; and the pumps need to be specially designed to handle these highly abrasive and harsh ore particles.

Potential pump problems In this dangerous environment of ore processing operations, many pumps can not handle the stresses of pumping the highly abrasive slurry through ball mill circuits.

Occasionally, problems within the circuit can cause the ball mills to be pulled into the sump, causing the pumps to be pushing through not just

POWERFUL SOLUTIONS. GLOBAL FORCE.

Ultimate safety in heavy lift gantries

Advanced hydraulic gantries that handle loads up to a thousand tons or more with optimum safety and control are being introduced by Enerpac.

They are among the latest products of Enerpac Integrated Solutions, which recently incorporated the internationally renowned Hydrospex heavy lifting specialist organisation into its portfolio of global capability in the accurate control of positioning, speed and force.

Hydrospex technology responds brilliantly to the imperative to enhance workplace safety around lifting equipment – with specific properties and control systems to ensure optimum stability and safety across different applications. Hydrospex Hydraulic Gantries possess unique features, including self-contained hydraulic systems, Intellilift wireless control systems and high grade steel technology.

Applications include any load that requires lifting and skidding within a relatively tight space without having the cost of crane set up and standby. Examples range from heavy static and mobile machinery including mills, turbines, generators, boilers, processing equipment, truck bodies, heavy earth moving equipment and gearboxes and drives for maintenance.

AUS 1800 225 084 info@enerpac.com.au www.enerpac.com.au

78 November 2010

AustralianMining

NZ 0800 363 772 neville@enerpac.co.nz www.enerpac.co.nz

Ball mills present unique problems for mining pumps. Inset: Steel grinding balls.

the ore slurry, but the large steel balls as well.

This combination of abrasive and corrosive ore as well as the weight of the balls can result in problems with the pumping circuit.

The balls can become jammed in the pump shells, damaging the pumps and causing unplanned downtimes and lost production.

In even more extreme cases the pumps have actually exploded, sending jagged bits of malformed and shattered pump and steel balls scattering across the site.

This has forced some pump manufacturers to add steel cages around their pumps to protect workers from incidents such as these.

Another serious problem that mining pumps face is when the rubber parts of the pump break off and then block the discharge pipe that feeds the cyclone cluster.

In cases such as these, the pumps have to be shut down and repaired immediately, resulting in further unscheduled downtimes.

GIW’s MDX pumps have two distinct design elements that provide an advantage in the heavy duty environment of the minerals processing ore grinding circuit and combat some of these inherent problems mining pumps face.

One of these elements are ‘ribs’ in the shell portion of the pumps, as well as ‘walls’ that encapsulate the wet end of the pump.

According to GIW, the thicknesses of both these elements are much greater than those of direct competitors.

In addition to these walls and ribs, the pumps are also built to contain grinding balls within the pump shell.

Another important feature that is being incorporated into these pumps is a stuffing box guard, which increases safety on site by preventing contact between operators and rotational components, including the pump shaft.

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

AD_AMGRANOV_10.pdf

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Automatic lubrication systems generate heavy-duty savings

G3™ Pump Versatile, powerful and affordable The G3 can be custom configured to meet the unique needs of virtually every vehicle, big or small.

A variety of built-in features brings the control you need and the power to handle NLGI #2 grease with the convenience of either AC or DC power. This pump is sure to save you maintenance time and repair expenses.

Real Solutions for Real People Money Savings You’ll Dig

For further information, please contact: Richard Foulis, VIC/SA/TAS, Tel: 0407 701 366 Paul Lucas, QLD, Tel: 0419 786 115 Rob Gatt, NSW, Tel:0428 028 001 Angie Walsh, WA/NT, Tel: 0427 150 572 You could also send an E-mail to or visit us at www.graco.com

info_APLube@graco.com

AM.NOV10.PG080.pdf

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PUMPS, PIPES, VALVES & COMPRESSORS

Overhauling pumping pipelines Research is improving the transportation of slurries, Rebecca Thyer* writes.

F

rom mining orebodies PipeTools, a software program to moving leftover resi- developed in the previous P599 dues from processing projects that provides a more operations, transporting slur- accurate prediction of the ries through vast tracks of behaviour of concentrated pipelines is an essential pro- suspensions compared to existcess for the mineral resources ing tools. industry.

Dr Wu says there are huge And with millions of tonnes errors – up to 600 per cent of ores transported via pipelines – associated with conveneach year operating costs can tional designs of these high be high. concentration flows, which It is where a new indus- result in pipeline transport try-supported project aims to failures or the inability to make a difference by contin- pump the desired amount of uing fundamental research solids. efforts into high concentra“Being able to make more tion slurry transport, and, accurate predictions will help through this optimising the the industry to optimise design designs for solids transport and achieve a much better in several areas. outcome,” she Dr Jie Wu, Dr Wu says there said. from CSIRO’s As well as are errors of up Minerals Down extending Under Flagship, to 600% PipeTools, the leads the new associated with new project aims AMIRA Interna- conventional to help industry tional P599B designs of high sponsors apply project. this technology He says trans- concentration and in turn reporting ores, con- flows. duce energy use, centrates and water use and residues in a slurry form is an capital design costs, while essential part of industrial operating pipelines with better mining processes. reliability.

In an effort to reduce both As such, Dr Wu says furwater and energy consump- ther research will be undertion and improve the slurry taken into high concentratransport’s reliability, re- tion, wide-size distribution searchers have built a funda- suspensions through horizonmental understanding of slurry tal and inclined pipes at energy flow design – particularly for consumptions comparable to highly concentration slurries conventional conveying tech– via two previous AMIRA niques.

International projects, P599 Vertical hoisting, where and P599A. material is lifted straight up Although a goal is to use and out of mines, will also be less water in the transporta- researched. tion process, doing so creates “The anticipated benefits thicker, more ‘paste-like’ slur- of vertical slurry pipelines as ries, which in turn creates a future technology for deep other issues, says Dr Wu. mine transport include less On one hand more product in-ground manpower, less can be moved at a time at maintenance, potentially lower lower velocities, but on the capital and running costs, and other, the pipes and associ- it will be inherently safe,” Wu ated infrastructure have to be said. designed to handle the much Research will focus on thicker flows. developing optimum designs To address these issues, to convey ore solids via vertiresearchers will use and fine cal pipes at reduced energy tune methods embodied in cost and with high reliability.

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This research will see an increase in the benefits of the vertical hoisting of materials from mines.

KEY POINTS • CSIRO and industry-funded research is continuing into slurry transport • With millions of tonnes of slurry transported each year via pipelines, improvements would be widespread • Researchers aim to reduce water and energy consumption, while improving pipelines’ reliability

Blending of crushed ore with carrier fluids will be used to achieve stable, low speed and safe conveying.

A CSIRO technology will be tested in sponsor nominated design cases, to demonstrate reduction of energy

consumption against the conventional mechanical transport methods. *This article originally appeared in the October 2010 edition of the CSIRO’s Process Magazine.

• CSIRO Jie Wu 03 9252 6173 jie.wu@csiro.au www.csiro.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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REDA

ELECTRICAL SUBMERSIBLE PUMPING SYSTEMS

*Mark of Schlumberger. Measurable Impact is a mark of Schlumberger. © 2010 Schlumberger. 10-AL-0066

High-Pressure Pumps for Mining Reliable Operational Performance

Maximize Uptime with REDA High-Pressure Pumps REDA* electric submersible pumps offer efficient mine dewatering and can be customized as required.

REDA ESPs have been running continuously for more than 4 years in two mines in Queensland, Australia—reducing downtime and operator costs. Engineered for best-in-class reliability, Schlumberger REDA high-pressure submersible bore pumps and underground booster pumps provide a single lift to the surface.

www.slb.com/espmining

Global Expertise | Innovative Technology | Measurable Impact

AM.NOV10.PG082.pdf

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GOLDEN GECKO AWARDS

WA companies fly GREEN credentials at Golden Gecko Awards Work to reduce the environmental impact of mining activity in the Mid-West has earned a mining company and its research partner a prestigious environmental award.

Jamie Wade writes for Australian Mining.

T

he annual Golden Gecko Awards for Environmental Excellence run by the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum welcomed a real gecko this year.

Mining-related surveys identified two new lizard species in the Pilbara: the mosaic desert skink and the northern beak-faced gecko.

This discovery was a reminder of the significant role and responsibility that the resources sector plays in contributing to the scientific understanding and stewardship of the unique Western Australian environment.

Minimising the impacts of onshore exploration for minerals or petroleum was the main focus of this year’s award entrants, including Crosslands Resources which received a Golden Gecko.

Crosslands won the award for the innovative research it commissioned to measure the

impact of drilling vibrations on a protected spider species at the mining company’s Jack Hills Iron Ore Project.

Short range endemic surveys in 2007 by Crosslands Resources at Jack Hills identified new populations of the Schedule 1 Shield-back Trapdoor Spider Idiosoma nigrum.

The research focussed on the Jack Hills mine site but also involved verification at fellow miner Sinosteel Midwest Corporation’s Weld Range Iron Ore Project.

Both projects are between Cue and Meekatharra.

Due to the uncertainty regarding the impacts of exploration on the spiders, a 200m buffer distance was required between spider burrows and any drilling activity.

Crosslands Resources manager, environment and approvals Dr Lara Jefferson sought a consultant that could deliver an ‘outside-the-box’

Observing the spiders within their burrows.

approach to assess the effects of past and new exploration drilling programs.

Jefferson eventually engaged Phoenix Environmental Sciences for their survey design that had two key innovations.

One was the use of fibre optic technology to allow the for the observation of spiders in burrows without digging them up.

The second was the design and development of a Vibration Simulation Device (VSD)

that provided vibrations equivalent to drilling.

This device allowed the survey to be undertaken with no new clearing as it was much more mobile.

Phoenix approached the research in two ways.

Firstly, it determined the historical impacts of exploration activities on the local populations of the species. The research found that there was no discernable difference between the presence or absence

and population structure of the populations within and outside the 200m disturbance buffer that the WA Department of Environment and Conservation had placed on Crosslands’ and Sinosteel’s activities.

To prove this Phoenix sourced and modified highly portable fibre optic viewing devices that made it possible to observe the species within its burrow with no disturbance to the conservation significant species.

CROSSLANDS IS A VERY PROUD RECIPIENT OF THE GOLDEN GECKO AWARD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE 2010.

We’re growing Jack Hills to meet international demand for Mid West iron ore.

Our Jack Hills mine is located in the heart of Western Australia’s emerging iron ore region, 380km north-east of Geraldton.

Today, we’re working to significantly increase annual production through the Jack Hills Expansion Project.

We’re growing, grow with us.

A GROWING AUSTRALIAN IRON ORE EXPORTER

2010 AWARD RECIPIENT

A 50/50 joint venture between Murchison Metals Ltd and Mitsubishi Development Pty Ltd Crosslands Resources Ltd ABN 66 061 262 397

82 November 2010

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www.crosslands.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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GOLDEN GECKO AWARDS

The second approach investigated the immediate impacts from vibrations caused by drilling and other ground disturbing activities on the survival of the species.

The solution: Phoenix engineered the VSD using an offcentre vibratory motor coupled to a heavily modified skidsteer loader bucket.

The vibration output was finely controlled using a speed controller.

The vibration ‘fingerprint’ of the VSD was then calibrated against in-field measurements made of RC drilling rigs.

Once calibrated the VSD was operated within 25m, 50m, 75m and 100m of the spider populations. This was repeated across all known populations of the species at Jack Hills.

The result was no observable response impact to the spiders from the vibrations.

Phoenix Environmental Sciences managing director and senior invertebrate biologist Jarrad Clark said the aim of the research was to minimise the impact to the environment and the cost to the project.

“We had very few planned exploration drill holes in the vicinity of known spider populations, so our sample size was going to be too small to be scientifically valid,” Clark told Australian Mining.

“There were too many disadvantages to drilling additional holes for it to be feas-

www.miningaustralia.com.au

The simulator provided vibrations equivalent to drilling.

The protected shield-back trapdoor spider.

ible including additional impacts, cost, logistics and scheduling.

“The result was the VSD design concept, which was tested in Perth before deployment. It offered dvantages over using an actual drill rig.”

The VSD incorporated equipment that was readily available which removed the logistical and scheduling issues.

“The VSD is comparatively small and, therefore, highly manoeuvrable so we could access more remote spider burrows but also avoid the need for clearing for new access tracks or drill pads,” he said.

“The enhanced vibratory control options gave a superior data set and it was much cheaper to operate. “Also, there was no drilling involved and, therefore, no need to return and rehabilitate holes.”

Clark said the innovative

project had some exciting environmental and project-specific outcomes.

“The project yielded a much larger, more robust data set for the Shield-back Trapdoor Spider in the Mid-West region, bringing more focus to monitoring and management of the species,” he said.

“It also provided the first empirical evidence that drilling vibrations have no discernable effect on these spider populations in Banded Iron Formations.”

The respective technologies also have many applications in mining and environmental management, according to Clark.

“The fibre optic technology could be used to monitor any burrowing species in a repeatable, accurate and, therefore, reliable way,” he said.

The VSD could also be used to assess vibration and

approach was driven by the need to employ ‘zero-impact’ survey methodology because they were dealing with a Schedule 1 species.

“The normal survey method of excavating burrows was out of the question,” he said.

“We also had to ensure scientific rigour with a survey method that would be robust, efficient, accurate as well as repeatable.

“The fibre optic monitoring technique was the most obvious solution as it involves using a down-hole camera on fibre optic cabling to carefully manoeuvre through the burrows and actually ‘sight’ the spiders in-situ.

“The method met all our criteria for scientific rigour, with the added bonus of being efficient, highly portable and cost-effective, it really was a win-win solution.”

Clark said the research

noise impacts to other conservation significant species such as bats and near-surface subterranean communities, according to Clark.

“A fine level of control can be achieved, so the method offers a reliable way of testing multiple ranges of vibration.

Comparatively little is known about noise and vibration impacts compared to other impacts and we perceive there could be a demand for this sort of assessment in coming years,” he said.

• Crossland Resources Lara Jefferson 08 9483 0500 ljefferson@crosslands.com.au www.crosslands.com.au • Phoenix Environmental Science Jarrad Clark 08 9345 1608 jarrad.clark@phoenixnv.com.au www.phoenixnv.com.au

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Malleefowl management Improving the knowledge of a threatened bird species has earned Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore (Cliffs) recognition at this year’s Golden Gecko Awards for Environmental Excellence, Jamie Wade writes.

C

liffs earned a Certificate of Merit at the 2010 Golden Gecko Awards for undertaking management activities at a regional scale and developing partnerships with community groups and the government to improve the knowledge of Malleefowl.

Cliffs’ Koolyanobbing project is within a significant habitat area for Malleefowl.

Cliffs has developed a strong working relationship with the Malleefowl Preservation Group, and supports the group to undertake annual regional surveys of activity at Malleefowl mounds.

“Cliffs has Australia’s largest continually monitored Malleefowl population and it engages the Malleefowl Preservation Group to expand that monitored area typically by a further 500 hectares per year,” Cliffs’ manager environmental services Paul West told Australian Mining.

“Over the last seven years, about 3000 hectares have been surveyed at Mt Jackson on foot by volunteers and the total distance travelled by all volun-

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Cliffs planned its iron ore project around the habitats of the Malleefowls.

teers is roughly equivalent to walking from Perth to Darwin.”

In order to manage threats to the species at a regional level, Cliffs has

collaborated with the WA Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) to undertake a joint DEC and Land Management Program.

This program includes feral predator baiting and research, fauna surveys, and wildfire management.

Cliffs’ partnerships and ongoing commitment to surveys to monitor the effectiveness of management actions is an important contribution to the conservation of Malleefowl, but it has also provided the company with valuable data to minimise the impact of mining on its habitat.

“Since Cliffs has such a good understanding of the Malleefowl population at Mt Jackson and where their active and inactive mounds are located, it has managed to plan its project to minimise impacts to Malleefowl habitat and avoid all active mounds,” West told Australian Mining.

Cliffs is currently the only iron ore producer in the Yilgarn region • Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Paul West 08 9426 3309 paul.west@cliffsnr.com www.cliffsnr.com

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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LCX9000 Drives. High performance in a compact package.

70% Space Savings.

The Eaton LCX9000 liquid-cooled drive is our most space-saving AC drive, well suited for locations where air-cooling would be difficult or expensive, or where the installation space is at a premium.

Ideal for unique applications.

As no air channels are required, the drives are extremely compact and suitable for ships and in the offshore industry, in mines or in the heavy industry. Power Ratings of 380 – 690 Volts, 16 – 3100 amperes

and available in seven different chassis sizes. As almost all of the heat generated is removed in the coolant, a high degree of protection is easily achieved at all power ratings. The space savings compared to just the power module of a similarly rated air-cooled drive can be up to 70%.

95% heat dissipation.

All components requiring cooling are mounted on one or more common aluminum cooling elements. The entire liquid-cooled power range has

only seven different chassis sizes.

The same basic mechanics are used for both AC- and DC-fed drives. The cooling liquid, which can be pure drinking water, removes about 95% of the heat generated. There are no special dielectric requirements on the liquid (de-ionization), as it never comes into contact with the high potential in the drives. The power module is connected to the LCX9000 control module either via an optical cable or, in the smaller sizes, by a copper cable.

For further information:

1300 332 866 www.eatonelectric.com.au

180PD

180PD Drives FPC 1.indd 1

18/10/2010 3:53:03 PM

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Minimising trencher stall SEMCO has released two new model trenchers, the RT 1000 and RT 1200.

With both featuring trencher flywheels to minimise trencher stall after pressure due to tough digging conditions, the new models incorporate a torsion shaft that absorbs shock loads from the driveline, while planetary gears multiply the hydrostatic motor torque for maximum digging power.

Comes with a foldable ROPS frame.

Under heavy loads, this torsion shaft can provide up to one and a half full turns without breaking, and is able to maintain the load upon the cutting teeth and insulating the hydrostatic system from shock loads.

Load Control is another function that allows the operator to command the machine to automatically adjust the power settings for production through varying ground conditions.

A four-wheel/three mode steering allows for high manoeuverability and the crab steering feature is useful on slopes for maintaining stability while trenching.

With a tool carrier modular chassis design it provides flexibility on site, allowing the machines to be configured with a variety of attachments.

These attachments include a trencher, vibratory plough, backfill blade backhoe and rock saw.

An optional foldable ROPS frame for the backhoe version is also available.

The machines have a hydrostatic ground drive, with a separate hydrostatic attachment drive providing speed viability for greater footage for trenching or ploughing.

An optional backhoe comes with two lever wobble stick controls.

Power is provided to the RT1000 by a Cummins 74KW 3.3 four cylinder turbo diesel tier 3 stage IIIA engine.

The RT 1200 has a 90.23 KW engine. The trenching depth of both machines is 2130mm.

• Semco Satch Santilli 02 9833 6000 ssantilli@semcogroup.com.au www.semcogroup.com.au

Fuel tanks ADVANCED Fuel Tanks (AFT) have released the Vanguard iTank, a self bunded fuel tank.

Suited to the mining industry, it is available in sizes ranging from 26 000 litres to 80 000 litres and has the same footprint as a 20 foot or 40 foot container.

It easily delivered, with ISO mountings that fit side lifter, container trucks, shipping and rail systems.

The tanks are self bunded and double walled.

It can be placed quickly, put into operation quickly and can be moved around a mining site easily with cranes or side-lifters or whatever equipment is available.

The iTank is doubled walled, which makes it ideal for storing diesel at mining sites, truck stops and bulk storage sites, or for petroleum stored outdoors in unpopulated areas.

It features simple refilling and pump points for easy and convenient use.

The unique rectangular design of the iTank means there are no water traps, with its sloping roof allowing rain run-off.

• Advanced Fuel Tanks 03 8795 7318 info@advancedfueltanks.com.au www.advancedfueltanks.com.au

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Hose couplings RYCO has released its latest range of hydraulic hose couplings.

It has released a new range of 20 000psi JIC heavy series couplings for its H12 and H13 high pressure hydraulic hoses.

Rated to 5100 psi/350 bar of working pressure, and with a safety factor of 4:1, performance testing saw the couplings remain leak and failure free under excess of 20 400 psi/1400 bar.

The range offers a series of matching 5100 psi/ 350 bar JIC hose couplings for hose sizes from 3/4” through to 11/2”.

• Ryco 03 9680 8000 www.ryco.com.au

Can quickly transition between ship loading and stockpiling roles.

Telescopic conveyors SUPERIOR Industries has launched the low profile TeleStacker Conveyors with onboard power.

The units which can be up to 52 metre in length come with a low level loading hopper.

These telescoping radial stacking conveyors reduce the equipment needed to transfer materials and minimises the number of loads in a transports.

Engineered with a 200kW gen-set unit, the self contained telescopic conveyors load ships and stockpile materials.

In addition, the stackers are designed with the FD axle assembly, with its hydraulically operated stacking wheels allowing for quick transition between transport and stockpile or ship loading modes.

The conveyors have capacities ranging from 453 tonnes per hour through to 4536 tonnes per hour.

Each unit comes with a strengthened undercarriage.

• Superior Industries www.superior-ind.com/contact www.superior-ind.com

Drill hoses RYCO has debuted its latest hoses for the mining industry.

Released under the brand DRILLER, the hoses have been specifically designed for use on mining drill rigs.

The high pressure large bore hose is suitable for air or oil and has the flexibility of half SAE bend radius.

More commonly known as Bull Hose, the drill rig hoses are reinforced internally with two braided layers of high tensile steel wire with a robust, flame and abrasion resistant synthetic rubber cover.

Available in two sizes – at 2” and with a maximum working pressure of 1300 psi, or at 11/2” with a maximum working pressure of 1450 psi – it has been designed to match with Ryco’s t700 series non-skive couplings.

• Ryco 03 9680 8000 www.ryco.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Pipe scan RUSSELL Fraser Sales have launched Sonatest’s new Veo 16:64 Phased Array instrument. The Veo has a multi-technique functionality, including TOFD; fast data recording, and a simple user interface encased in a rugged housing. It is designed for pipeline Phased array scanning. weld inspection, pipe corrosion mapping, and composite testing. It display full 3D views of the user’s test set up including probes, wedges, the weld and geometry, with phased array beams.

On board probe and wedge databases have been incorporated into the instrument for fast setups. The phased array instrument has TCG and ACG for quick encoding speeds with fast A-scan recording and reporting functionality. Two separate conventional channels provide simultaneous Phased Array and TOFD scanning to speed inspection and ensure correct data referencing for improved defect characterisation. Real Time Focal Law calculations allow the user to change scanning parameters instantly, reducing the time spent on setup and defect investigation. The Veo enclosure has been designed to withstand the tough environments in which NDT inspections are carried out, achieving IP65 standard for water and dust ingress and employing internal shock mounts to withstand impacts.

• Russell Fraser Sales 02 9545 4433 rfs@rfsales.com.au www.rfsales.com.au

Variable speed drives SCHLUMBERGER has released a next generation low voltage drive.The Schlumberger Speedstar 519 SWD variable speed drive is fitted with a phase shifting auto transformer and an integral output sine wave drive (SWD) technology for operating submersible and surface pumps. The drives are Eliminates drive harmonics.

IEEE 519-1992 compliant, and virtually eliminate harmonic distortion reflected back to the power system. The drive also features a third party IP-56 enclosure that meets high standards for water and dust ingress in rough conditions, making it suitable for operation during ambient temperatures of 50º Celcius.

• Schlumberger Australia 08 9420 4800 als.apg@slb.com www.slb.com

88 November 2010

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Equipment air cleaners DONALDSON Australasia has released its latest range of air cleaner assemblies for heavy equipment.

Designed for machinery operating in severe dust conditions such as those found on the mine site and in quarries, the all new SSG heavy duty air cleaners have been purpose built for large equipment.

The units are fitted with radial seal, urethane end capped filters for a reliable seal. The radial seal allows Removes heavy dust. the element to slip on and off the outlet tube easily.

It also utilises Donacline cyclonic pre-cleaner tubes, which remove 95-97% of heavier dust particles from the inlet air volume which leaves the main air filter elements free of heavy particles.

The SSG housing is made of high quality heavy gauge steel and is supplied in a rust protective primed finish.

The air cleaners are also designed for the easy fitment of an optional Dust-Dumpa vacuator extension.

These attachments use the normal operational vibration of equipment to expel dust particles.

The vibratory action improves dust evacuation from the air cleaner base ensuring total efficiency and functionality.

The clear tube body of the Dust-Dumpa allows for easy visual inspection of dust collection.

• Donaldson Australasia 02 4350 2034 www.donaldson.com

Microwave sensor SEMRAD has launched the WADECO MWS-ST/SR type microwave sensor for blocked chute and pipe detection. The switch consists of a transmitter (MWS-ST) and a receiver (MWSSR) installed face to face.

The transmitter emits a continual low power microwave beam towards the receiver and an output relay is released when the beam is obstructed. It can be used for applications such as the detection of blocked chutes, flow/no flow detection, for products on conveyors, as well as the detection of blocked pneumatic conveying pipes and of blocked air slides.

The sensor has a completely non invasive installation, meaning there is no disruption to material flow and allows the process to remain closed. It is unaffected by material build up on the antenna head, and now comes with a range of up to 200 metres.

With no moving parts and non contact detection, the sensor has reduced wear and tear, and zero maintenance.

• Semrad 029520 0222 sales@semrad.com.au www.semrad.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Drum dump feeders

Inspection headlamps

FLEXICON has unveiled its latest drum dump feeders for materials handling. The new Tip-Tite feeder seals drums against a discharge cone, tips the drum and feeds bulk material into downstream Designed for bulk materials transfer. equipment at a dust free controlled rate.

Raised by a single hydraulic cylinder, the drum platform creates a dust tight seal between its rim and the underside of the discharge cone. A second hydraulic cylinder tips the platform hood assembly and drum, stopping at dump angles up to 90 degrees with a motion dampening feature.

Materials flowing into the discharge cone charges the intake adapter of a cantilevered flexible screw conveyor that feeds downstream equipment volumetrically.

The screw conveyors come in custom lengths oriented horizontally or at an incline.

Gentle rolling action of the flexible screw conveyors in an enclosed tube reduces agglomerates discharged from drums, and improves feed rate accuracy.

It is pre-engineered, pre-wired and ready to plug in and run, and accommodates drums from 114 to 208 litres, coming in carbon steel with a durable industrial finish. It comes in stationary and mobile configurations.

• Flexicon 1300 353 942 sales@flexicon.com.au www.flexicon.com.au

RUSSELL Fraser Sales have released Spectroline’s UVA/White Light LED inspection headlamp. Named the EagleEye, the hands free headlamp provides a new For magnetic particle testing. method for testing magnetic particle and fluorescent penetrant testing, as well as another other application where hands free operation is needed. The headlamp produces a nominal steady state UV-A intensity of 5,500 µW/cm2 at 38 cm and 1,300 µW/cm2 at 70cm. A built in fan keeps the 250 gram lamp cool, to maintain UV-A intensity during prolonged inspections. It is powered by a single rechargeable lithiumion battery, which provides up to 45 minutes of continuous inspection between charges.

The EagleEye inspection lamp is part of the EK-3000 kit, which also contains two ultra high intensity UV-A LEDS for NDT and mining inspection as well as three additional LED white lights for general illumination. An adjustable strap allows it to be worn on a hard or directly on the head for hands free use. The kit also includes a lamp mount/spray can attachment for single operator MPI/yoke inspection.

• Russell Fraser Sales 02 9545 4433 rfs@rfsales.com.au www.rfsales.com.au

Surveying auto levels TOPCON Positioning Systems has released its new range of AT-B series auto levels for surveying.

The AT-B series can focus on objects only 200 mm in front of the telescope, as compared with previous models that Protected against moisture. provided 500mm or 1m focusing distances, facilitating work in confined spaces. The auto level compensator incorporates four suspension wires made of extremely high tensile metal to ensure minimal thermal expansion in harsh environments.

A magnetic damping system also quickly levels and stabilises the line of sight, even when working around heavy vibrations.

It comes with an IPx6 rating, and is protected against powerful water jets, allowing it to withstand sudden showers or torrential rains.

This design also prevents clouding or condensation within the telescope.

Three models available are within the range, the AT-B2 with 32x magnification (40x optional), and an 0.7mm accuracy (0.5mm with an optional micrometer); the AT-B3 with 28x, and1.5mm accuracy; and the AT-B4 which 24x, and 2.0mm accuracy The whole series also feature two speed focus and a covered horizontal circle for protection against dirt and scratching.

• Topcon Positioning Systems 1800 867 266 info@topconpositioning.com.au www.topconpositioning.com.au

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Mining harnesses MILLER has unveiled its latest fall protection harnesses for the mining industry. Available in an underground and surface version, the full body harnesses are manufactured from a new heavy duty and light weight 43mm Duraclean webbing.

The webbing is treated with a coating which forms an invisible barrier around it to prevent water, oil and dirt from being absorbed into the webbing, helping to prolong its working life.

The harnesses also have a flame resistant KMAX.4 vest style model which has been designed for above ground welding applications. A key feature of the underground harness is the inclusion of the Prospector Miner’s Belt, which is designed to carry emergency breathing apparatus and other underground safety tools. It incorporates a battery and self rescuer strap. The belt allows the user to wear the self rescue units at their side rather than at the back, eliminating discomfort when sitting down.

Both the surface and underground variants of the harness include a floating frontal D-ring, as well as rear dorsal fall arrest and extension D-rings, confined space loops and fully stainless steel components. The Miners Harness also includes adjustable leg straps with quick connect buckles.

For increased comfort, they also feature wider back pads for support. The Miller Miners harness is certified to AS/NSZ 1891.1 2007 standards.

• Sperian 1300 139 166 www.sperian.com

Safety boots STEEL Blue is re-launching its Argyle safety footwear as part of its 15 year anniversary celebrations. The new anniversary shoe will contain most of the original’s features, but will have additional safety and comfort inclusions. The boots all come with safety steel toe caps, are water resistant, anti static and provide protection against corrosive materials.

Remaining focused on comfort and durability Steel Blue will continue with its research and development program to ensure we remain able to meet our goal of producing the world’s most comfortable safety footwear,” Steel Blue general manager sales Ross Fitzgerald said.

The industry saw the new boots first hand at the Sydney Safety Show from 26 to 28 October.

Steel Blue first launched onto the Australian market in 1995 and quickly set the benchmark for safety footwear comfort. The company’s reputation has steadily built over the years with the aim to make the world’s most comfortable safety boot.

• Steel Blue 08 9209 3322 www.steeblue.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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ALL YOUR ENGINE NEEDS TO HELP DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD.

As the specialist in diesel engine lubrication, we have the complete range to meet all your business requirements. From engine and manual transmission oil, to grease and coolant we’ve got the solutions to help with engine longevity, performance and cost savings. Our local knowledge also ensures we can help you choose the right products, while our wide distribution makes them available in more places that are close to you. And all this comes backed by the international research and development from Chevron Corporation, which focuses on diesel engine technology, along with the assurance that our lubricants meet international standards. Delo – all your engine needs.

CAL0073/M/AM

See how Delo can help your business: Visit delo.com.au/mining | Search ‘Caltex Delo’

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For technical advice call 1300 364 169

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Safety signals R. STAHL has released audible and visual signals for hazardous areas.

Called the Yodalex series, it incorporates a number of signaling devices for hazardous areas, such as the YO6 omni-directional horn, Alarms for hazardous areas. the V6 beacon and the YL6 combination unit.

The YO6 horn has a maximum sound output of 110dB at one metre, with a sound selection consisting of 32 emergency tones.

The V6 beacon utilises a high intensity flash at a rate of 1Hz, available in several different colours.

Its dome is constructed from flame retardant polycarbonate material.

The YL6 combination unit provides a fully integrated horn and strobe within a single enclosure.

All units are held within a flame proof enclosure and approved for use in zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 for gas and dust atmospheres.

• NHP Electrical Engineering 03 9429 2999 info@nhp.com.au www.nhp.com.au

Balanced hammers REDBACK has released the Maxistrike hammer.

Featuring a curved handle and unique arc shape, it eliminates the problem of hammering over objects such as pipes or joists.

The balanced design of the hammer reduces reverberation, with the curve providing a counter balance so energy is transferred back into the neck of the hammer, and not the users arm or back.

It is made from a single piece of forged steel, double tempered for durability with an ergonomic rubber grip over the steel shaft.

• Redback Tools 02 9966 5554 info@redbacktools.com.au www.redbacktools.com.au

Reduces reverb.

Complex controls AUTOMATED Control Engineering (ACE), with Hiquel, have introduced the latest Incorporates a micro-controller. complex control.

The new in-Case series provides an integrated range of industrial monitoring and timing relays in a compact 22.5mm DIN rail case.

The design has focused on flexibility and the incorporation of a micro-controller, with just four monitoring relays offering a complete range, from single phase current voltage, through to three phase voltage, and thermistor monitoring with all popular function variants and combinations selected by DIP switches.

It features dual timing functions and elapsed time indications.

The units also have easy to set parameters and a manual reset button, enclosed in a special angled terminal box.

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

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Alert systems WORMALD is distributing the Grace range of Personal Alert Safety Systems (PASS) and Automatic Distress Signal Units (ADSU).

Ideal for use during emergencies on mine sites, the PASS and ADSU offer multiple configurations and can be used as stand alone systems or with complete telemetry capabilities.

The range consists of the Super PASS II, the TPASS-3 and the SuperCell 250, 300 and 500.

The Super PASS is the smallest and loudest standalone alert system in the range, and is available with lack of motion alarm times of 30, 60, 90 and 120 seconds.

Stand alone alarm.

It features both motion and/or heat sensors for ease of use.

The TPASS is a two way signalling system that can be configured to communicate with other Super PASS 3, SuperCell and Watchdog products.

Acting as a standalone or mini base station, the Super Cell receives instant alarms from the TPASS system as well as other superCell models.

It can be used to send and receive text messages and incorporates audible and vibrating alarms as well as a motion alarm.

• Wormald 133 166 www.wormald.com.au

Diesel fuel filters DONALDSON Australia has released its bulk diesel fuel filtration range. It consists of 2 way, 4 way and 5 way filtration manifolds, pre-equipped with dual filter heads.

The system is capable of achieving a cleanliness level of ISO 14/13/11.

The modular design of the manifolds allows for numerous combinations to be plumbed together to handle high flow rates, both in and out of the tanks.

The range also contains T.R.AP breathers, which react faster than traditional desiccant breathers and offer moisture removal as low as 15% relative humidity.

All engines require onboard fuel filtration, but there is only so much the onboard system can do.

Even though most vehicles are fitted with both primary and secondary fuel filters, onboard diesel filtration is single pass; this means the filter only gets one chance to catch contaminant as it passes through on its way to the engine.

Removal of dirt and water from bulk storage vessels and tankers will help prevent the fuel related problems that result from contamination.

• Donaldson Australia 02 4350 2034 marketing.australia@donaldson.com www.donaldson.com

Fibre optic sensors BESTECH Australia is now distributing Fiber Sensing’s fibre optic products.

The sensors, constructed from optical fibre Has a serial multiplexing capacity.

Bragg grating (FBG) technology allows for the development of advanced monitoring systems.

They are used to measure strain, temperature, acceleration, tilt and pressure in a mining environment.

The sensors fibre optic sensors feature high multiplexing capability; long distance transmission; EMI/RFI immunity; electric isolation; maintain signal integrity and have long term stability.

FBG technology has inherent serial multiplexing capacity and an ability to provide absolute measurements without the need for referencing.

It also operates in harsh environments.

• Bestech Australia 03 9584 1133 www.bestech.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Vent captor

Tank cleaners

AUTOMATED Control Engineering (ACE) has released the new mini vent-captor for small pipe sizes. The vent captor type 3505/3022.30 is a remote air flow meter for industrial applications that is designed for small pipes from ID 10 to 15mm, with the measurement of flow based on the calorimetric principle. The vent captor is completely resin encapsulated, rugged and shock and vibration proof. Compact and with no additional parts, the remote air flow meter is suited to small flow volumes in small pipe diameters, is temperature compensated and has a linear output of 4-20mA. It also features an LED output display for ease of use.

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

TECPRO has released the Breconcherry SBB tank cleaner which eliminates ball bearings. Maintaining a consistent jet peripheral velocity, the tank cleaner utilises a hydraulic bearings which eliminates the need for ball bearings, reducing wear and the potential of contamination.

Jet cleaning.

Water flowing through the head provides the hydraulic bearing.

The Turbo SBB features an advanced pressure regulation system in the drive chamber, ensuring a constant, slow rotation at pressures ranging from 2 to 20 bar. This low jet peripheral velocity is optimised to maintain high impingement and allow longer chemical dwell times for improved cleaning efficiency.

The slots in the rotating ball produce strong impact fan jets to scrub specific areas. Lightweight and compact, the low wear design demands minimal maintenance and no spare parts are required.

It has a 3/4” BSP connection and requires a minimum manhole/flange opening of 50mm for unit insertion.

At a pressure of 10 Bar, the Turbo SSB has a cleaning radius of 2.3m and wetting radius of 3m. It is suitable for working temperatures up to 95ºC and ambient temperatures of up to 140º.

• Tecpro Linda Spencer 02 9634 3370 www.tecpro.com.au

Designed for small pipes.

XRF analysers THERMO Fisher Scientific and Portable Analytical Solutions have released the new range of Niton hand-held XRF analysers. These latest analyers, the XL3T GOLDD Plus and the XL2 GOLDD provide improvements in detection, speed and efficiencies. The XL2 has as standard a 45 kV X ray tune; 25 mm sq Silicon Drift Detector; light element detection; a PSUEDO-element program (which allows the user to enter a calculation PPMDAS) and faster overall detection times. The XL3T is a leap forward for hand held XRF, and can analyse light elements with the need for a helium purge. On top of this is a new PSEUDO element program; test all GEO functions – which automatically determines the correct analytical test mode for rapid analysis of major, minor and trace elements in geological surveys; and in field laboratory specific data • Portable Analytical Solutions 02 4381 2844 www.portableas.com

Hand-held XRF.

TM

A rm ourt ech

Sherval 10/156

Pivotal duckboard system TM

Armourtech patented pivotal duckboard system increases the integrity and service life of the tray lip. Models available for truck sizes from 150 to 240 tonnes and can be fitted in minimal time. Test-proven benefits of Armourtech duckboard system: TM

• • • • •

Improved crusher and stockpile feed Improved load positioning Improved tray life Reduced tyre damage Reduced spillage

For all the facts and figures call 1300 4 KEECH or visit www.keech.com.au Keech Australia

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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.

NATIONAL MINING MANAGER Location – Auckland Company – Gough Gough & Hamer Description: New Zealand’s largely untapped natural resources positions mining as a growth area with significant current and planned exploration and development underway. The Gough Group supplies and maintains heavy mining equipment to a range of coal and gold mining projects.

We have a rare opportunity to join the leadership team of the Equipment Group in the capacity of National Mining Manager. Reporting directly to the GM, Equipment Group this senior role will see you use your commercial and strategic mindset to deliver the best mining supply solutions to the industry.

There’s so much to look forward to in this stunning corner of the world. Professionally, you’ll be joining New Zealand’s only CAT dealership – a family owned business renowned for its stability, security and people-focussed philosophy. Personally, you’ll have every reason to smile in New Zealand, what with your competitive remuneration, the affordable living and abundance of outdoor pursuits … need we say more?

To express your interest in this senior role please apply online now and visit our website www.ggh.co.nz to find out more about our culture and our people. A full position description is available at www.ggh.co.nz To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MINE SUPERINTENDENT Location – WA Company – EMS Pty Description: Work for one of the top operations around and enjoy the backing of well trained staff in a friendly, professional atmosphere.

It’s a FIFO ex Perth or Residential with an employer of choice, they have multiple operations and have a proven record for rewarding hard work and a work ethic that fits the sites profile.

Whilst this role is autonomous you will be surrounded by the best in the business to give you the support when you need it.

The principal function of the role is operational support to the underground mine by ensuring that the Mining team meet production targets on time and in budget while adhering to safety guidelines.

Please contact Dianne 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 MINING ENGINEER/ALTERNATE UNDERGROUND MANAGER Location – WA Company – EMS Pty Description: We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic and experienced Engineer with at least a good 5 years' plus experience (underground) to play an integral role in helping

this company maintain and further their development.

Respected Company with a quality operating mine, huge reserves and plans of expansion to their operations are offering you the opportunity to build an exciting career with a good solid team.

The position has a technical bent and reports to the Mine Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the day to day operations of the mine, the provision of leadership to the engineering and technical operations support team, and for ensuring the development and attainment of budgets and forecasts.This role provides a great opportunity for a self-motivated, technically competent individual to demonstrate skills and enthusiasm whilst progressing your career.

Please contact Dianne on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au UNDERGROUND MINE MANAGER Location – TAS Company – EMS Pty Description: It’s a Residential role with an employer of choice, they are big players in the market, who have a proven record for rewarding hard work and a work ethic that fits the sites profile.Whilst this role is autonomous you will be surrounded by the best in the business to give you the support when you need it.

As the Underground Manager the principal function of the role is driving operational support and development of the underground mine by ensuring that the Mining team meet production targets on time and in budget while adhering to safety guidelines.

This role will suit an experienced engineer who has held the role as an UGM for a few years. As such to be considered for this position you will have a Bachelor of Engineering in mining, a proven background in the mining industry (minimum of 812 years relevant experience). You will also possess a First Class Mine Manager’s ticket and exhibit exemplary personal skills such as the ability to lead people, build teams, good communication skills and the capability to generate improvement ideas across the site.

Please contact Dianne on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au TECHNICAL SERVICES SUPERINTENDENT Location – Beijing Company – EMS Pty Description: This is a forward thinking team that loves all the challenges thrown at them ...you will need to be of the same culture. Because of the high degree of autonomy in this position and as a driven, creative and experienced Tech Services Engineer, you can really sink your teeth into this role.

Its expected your priority is safety first, whilst meeting and exceeding bottom line performance expectations. You will be managing a team of senior mining personnel across the board and providing support and strategic direction on technical activities. Managing departmental budgets and forecasts. Reserves and infrastructure design and new development.

Maintaining and encouraging a safe workplace environment. Development of a competent workforce, ensuring the optimum utilisation of all assets.

Reporting to the Manager Mining, ideally you would need to have a good planning/operational background and people focus, with potential to move up the ranks in the future.

We need you to have a degree qualification in Mining Engineering with at least 8-15 years experience in open pit & underground mining and preferably with a solid background in Technical Services and Strategic Planning.

Please contact Dianne on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au UNDERGROUND MINE ENGINEER – TASMANIA Location – TAS Company – Shell Personnel Description: Our client is seeking an Underground MiningEngineer with a dynamic and results driven approach and a superior safety focus, to join the Mining Department of the Fossey underground mine.

The Fossey Mine is located on the picturesque upper west coast of Tasmania, centrally located near the towns of Tullah and Waratah, and a short distance to the major centres of Burnie and Devonport, as well as the natural wonders of the Cradle Mountain National Park boasting an idyllic coastal lifestyle with fresh and salt water fishing leisure activities and good educational facilities.

Reporting to the Technical Services Manager, this role would suit an experienced Underground MiningEngineer with at least 3 years experience.

You will be rewarded with an attractive remuneration package commensurate with relative experience as well as the opportunity to work for a progressive Engineering organisation offering career development opportunities.

Please contact Tony on 03 9890 2199 or tony@shellpersonnel.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au DEPUTY Location – NSW Company – Shell Personnel Description: Our client is a leading contractor in the underground coal sector. They offer the most extensive range of specialised services and skills to the mining industry. They have operations in NSW and QLD. They are searching for Deputies for one of their operations.

Please contact Tony on 03 9890 2199 or tony@shellpersonnel.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au COAL GEOLOGISTS Location – Brisbane Company – Salva Resources Description: This is an exceptional opportunity for Exploration Geologists (positions available for various levels of experience in various locations) who are looking for a refreshing opportunity with an organised, exciting and innovative company. We have major clients needing your assistance right now. We are a dynamic and motivated mine consulting and services company focusing on coal but also offering services in mineral deposits. We will continually provide you with opportunities to reach your potential, as you will help us achieve ours. We have a growing international focus and are continually seeking new business opportunities in mining related fields, offering you the prospect of a more diversified and rewarding work environment.

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Senior roles exist for candidates who wish to lead and develop teams to deliver these exploration programs for our clients. The role's international head office is located in the Brisbane CBD. For further information please contact Renae Long, renae.long@salva.com.au or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au SENIOR COAL GEOLOGIST Location – Brisbane Company – Salva Resources Description: This is an exceptional opportunity for Senior Geologists (positions available Brisbane based and interstate). We have major clients needing your assistance right now. We are a dynamic and motivated mine consulting and services company focusing on coal but also offering services in mineral deposits. We will continually provide you with opportunities to reach your potential, as you will help us achieve ours. We have a growing international focus and are continually seeking new business opportunities in mining related fields, offering you the prospect of a more diversified and rewarding work environment.

To be successful in this role, you will possess relevant tertiary qualifications and previous experience in a bulk mining commodity.

You must demonstrate experience working in open-cut, knowledge and application of sampling theory, geostatistics, geological modelling, grade control principles, block modelling practices and geological software.

The successful candidate is an active team member who has an open communication style, shares information and contributes to an excellent working environment. We have a flexible site based working roster and you will be required to work independently, but will have access to, the support and experience of senior mining professionals.

If you are an experienced, motivated mining professional and would enjoy the benefits of working with a friendly team in a relaxed yet professional environment, we would love to hear from you.

The role’s international head office is located in the Brisbane CBD. For further information please contact Renae Long, renae.long@salva.com.au or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au PRINCIPAL MINING ENGINEER Location – Brisbane Company – Salva Resources Description: This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced mining engineer who is looking for a refreshing opportunity to join an exciting and innovative company. The Principal Mining Engineer role is a newly created position arising from the strong project growth of Salva Resources. We are a dynamic and motivated mining consulting and services company primarily focused in the coal sector but also offering services in base metals. We will provide you with opportunities to reach your potential, as you will help us achieve ours. We have a growing international focus and are continually seeking new business opportunities in mining related fields, offering you the prospect of a diversified and rewarding work environment.

We offer permanent employees 5 weeks annual leave per year, have great professional development opportunities and have an exciting bonus scheme.

As a key member of the management team you will be accountable for the management of mining engineering and planning functions across the Group, including Australia, India and Indonesia.

It is a Brisbane-based role with our office located in the Brisbane CBD, some travel is required as part of the role.

For further information please contact Renae Long, renae.long@salva.com.au or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.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 Unimin. Because whether it’s Quicklime, Hydrated Lime or one of many other limestone products you may require, Limil is a name synonymous with quality. Choose Limil from one of the seven Unimin plants located 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 and our industry-leading Lime products, visit www.unimin.com.au

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EVENTS

Conferences, seminars & workshops Event submissions can be emailed to ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Monitoring of Airborne Contaminants, Noise, and Vibration 28-29 November 2010 Gold Coast, QLD This SMI Knowledge Transfer short course program will consider air quality management and regulations in the resources sector; predictive real time emissions monitoring for projects; monitoring and management ecological effects of air contaminants; health risk assessment of heavy metals and metalloids in air

particulates and fallout; case studies on regional and local community impacts of emissions from mine and processing sites and, a better understanding of blast monitoring.

• SMI Knowledge Transfer Leigh Goss 07 3346 5923 l.goss@jktech.com.au www.jktech.com.au

Innovative, Sustainable & Profitable Mining 4 November 2010 Hyatt Regency, Perth A forum to bring Australia and Sweden, two great mining nations together for knowledge sharing and networking. The event offers opportunities for interviews with Swedish mining companies and the Swedish Ambassador to Australia and to get their thoughts on how to keep mining innovative, sustainable and profitable.

• Swedish Trade Council Tommie Åkesson 02 9262 1077 tommie.akesson@swedishtrade.se

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7th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards 11 November 2010 Doltone House Sydney, NSW Australia’s mining industry often goes unheralded for its tireless efforts toadvance economic prosperity, workplace safety, scientific endeavour and environmental conservation. The Australian Mining Prospect Awards, now in their seventh year, aim to correct this by encouraging and recognising excellence in the industry.

• Australian Mining Maggie Tra 02 9422 2750 ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au

Open Cut Mining 2010 22-24 November 2010 Brisbane, QLD This event is designed to convene those with operational responsibilities to hear practical insights into strategies and systems which look set to significantly improve processes in open cut mining such as enhanced

operations and pioneering operational technology case studies.

• IBR Conferences 02 9896 0796 info@ibrc.com.au www.ibrc.com.au

7th SA Explorers’ Conference 26 November 2010 Adelaide Convention Centre A one day technically based, all commodities, all areas conference including new companies, exploration projects, feasibility studies and near mine exploration in South Australia.

• SA Explorers Jeanette Brooks 08 8366 6000 www.saexplorers.com.au admin@minotaurexploration.com. au

Mine Reconciliation 8 December 2010 Crown Plaza, Surfers Paradise

Mine reconciliation is an essential process to the continued performance and improvement of a mine site. This conference will address strategies for developing an efficient and optimised reconciliation process to ensure your company’s export quality, reputation and profitability.

• Mine Reconciliation Judy Hizon 02 9229 1000 www.minereconciliation.com.au

AIMEX 6-9 September 2011 Sydney, NSW Held every four years, the premier mining exhibition in Australia gathers together companies from all over the world to conduct business face-to-face with key buyers and decision-makers in the resources industry. It showcases the latest technology and mining services.

• Reed Exhibitions Australia Peter Thompson 02 9422 2955 peter.thompson@reedexhibitions. com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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