Modern Energy And Mines Review

MODERN ENERGY

AND MINES REVIEW

As a leading provider of mining solutions, Hitachi offers high-performing equipment and services that help bolster your operational performance and overall productivity. From fleet management systems that render real-time visibility and establish control over mine operations, to highly engineered excavators and haul trucks, Hitachi is here to protect your operators, your site team and your bottom line.

Modern Energy And Mines Review

CONTACT

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Marketing Phillip Mtasa info@modernenergyandmines.com

Administration Patson Moyo admin@modernenergyandmines.com

Design Luckson Chigarire design@modernenergyandmines.com

Editor’s Note

Welcome to yet another issue of your favourite mining magazine, Morden Energy and Mines Review

I Hope to find you well. Since mining provides inputs for other industrial sectors that are vital for sustaining people’s well-being and the functioning of global economies, we pray that the situation will be back to normal in the mining sector and miners work together towards achieving the Mining Industry target by 2023.

An insightful risk management article on the differences, relationships between compliance and risk management is also published in this edition.

The sad reality in the Chrome sector requires government and all stakeholders to spare a thought for the sector because the mineral is being sold for a song. Extractive activities generate well-known negative externalities.

Enjoy reading your exclusive online mining magazine and continue to be educated informed and entertained As we find out in this issue, progress in automation and autonomous machines can enable miners to develop subsurface projects with a significantly smaller footprint both below and above ground. New solutions that can protect workers using connectivity and location data will help underground mining to shake off its image as a risky and destructive pursuit of riches.

The advances made are not only significant but necessarya sizeable amount of the vast reserves needed for the planet’s shift away from fossil fuels is located underground. However, significant challenges are still ahead. For instance, underground reserves are located in countries where 5G networks, public oversight, and renewable energy aren’t readily accessible. Underground miners will also need to accept far higher levels of investment in local communities, and far greater levels of transparency and accountability, than their mining predecessors. As we reach towards deeper ore reserves for the needs of tomorrow, mining needs to create an underground world much removed from the deadly, toxic, and cramped environments faced by many in the past - including this editor’s not-too-distant ancestors in South Africa. Only automation and robotics will make underground mining safer for all, and only they can deliver the precision mining the future demands

I wish you to achieve all your sate goals.

Editor In Chief: Dhumira Wellington

Disclaimer!

DEEPLY INVESTED IN MINING.

Geographe & SparePower: a Powerful Partnership for High-Quality Mining Parts in Africa

With a growing demand from miners in Africa for efficient mining operations and reliable fleet performance, Geographe has partnered with SparePower, a reputable South African company that offers cost-effective parts and specialises in local manufacturing, extensive research & development, and collaboration with global partners.

Geographe and SparePower share the same values of high-quality manufacturing and reducing costly downtimes to help miners solve their mine site challenges. SparePower holds a local manufacturing license for Geographe parts, ensuring ongoing quality monitoring and reviews with the commitment to maintain consistency in product quality through the strict oversight of the SparePower manufacturing team and Geographe’s quality assurance controls.

In addition, Geographe and SparePower support localisation efforts by obtaining locally supplied steel bar stock, forgings & castings and collaborating with local businesses for precision machining, heat treatment, precision grinding, and third-party inspections outside the ISO9001-based quality system. SparePower’s Level 2 B-BBEE status and AAA Empowerdex rating re-

flect our commitment to supporting localisation and inclusiveness.

Thinking about solving common challenges in the mining industry, Geographe has engineered quality Enhanced Performance (EP™) Parts to ensure optimal performance and minimal interruptions. Through our partnership with SparePower, we bring shared values of innovation and quality to the Afri-

can industry.

Geographe’s International Business Project Manager, Stuart Pernich, will be visiting South Africa, Zambia & Botswana from the 19th of April until the 4th of May. Book an appointment to chat with the Geographe and SparePower team and discover how we can tackle your mine site challenges.

Emerson’s New Aluminum Filter Regulators

Enhance Process Efficiency and Streamline Supply Chains

Able to handle the highest flow rates, ASCO Series 641/642/643 Aluminum Filter Regulators allow manufacturers to single-source complete valve piloting solutions

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (March 29, 2023) – Emerson has launched its new ASCO™ Series 641, 642 and 643 Aluminum Filter Regulators, which maximize process efficiency

and reduce unplanned downtime in a broad range of process applications. This line of durable, aluminum filter regulators can handle the highest flow rates of any regulators in their class and provides precise pressure regulation to downstream instruments.

An alternative to stainless steel filter regulators, ASCO Series 641, 642 and 643 Aluminum Filter Regulators complete Emerson’s full suite of valve piloting technologies. This allows process manufacturers to source their total valve piloting solutions, including solenoid valves, switch boxes, filter regulators and accessories, from one global technology partner.

By using one supplier, manufacturers can simplify their supply chains, improve design accuracy and access comprehensive engineering support. Designing a valve piloting solution that includes technologies from different suppliers splits vendor responsibility and can introduce an opportunity for error.

“Sourcing valve piloting technology from multiple vendors is time-consuming and complicates supply chains, while limited options for conventional filter regulators leave some customers with unmet needs,” said Mike Howells, marketing manager, process applications for Europe, Middle East & Africa at Emerson. “Our new ASCO Series 641, 642 and 643 Aluminum Filter

Regulators simplify sourcing for our customers and ensures that they have industry-leading technology that enhances process efficiency, safety and reliability.”

With the market’s highest flow rate capabilities of up to 370.8 standard cubic feet per minute (10,500 liters per minute), the aluminum filter regulators improve process efficiency and ensure that stringent process valve opening/closing requirements like those for emergency shutdown valves are met. Higher flow rates provide more air to the valve actuator, which increases the opening and closing speed of process valves. Depending on the application, slow valve closures can increase safety risks.

These robust filter regulators feature rugged construction and advanced engineering that further enhance safety and maintain plant uptime, while specialized powder coating ensures reliable operation in harsh, corrosive process environments. Effective moisture removal keeps media dry to protect downstream devices, and sophisticated media filtration prevents downstream process contamination.

This three-tiered regulator line provides a .25-inch to 1-inch coverage and is highly customizable. Process manufacturers can choose advanced features such as Quick Relief, which enhances safety and operational certainty by exhaust-

ing downstream pressure if supply air pressure is lost, as well as low-temperature and low-copper variants, manual and automatic draining, global certifications, and many other options that serve specific applications, in the chemical, oil and gas, energy and utilities, food and beverage, and water and wastewater industries.

For more information, see ASCO Series 641, 642 and 643 Aluminum Filter Regulator specifications, features and resources.

Media:

• Contacts: Emerson Global Media Contacts

Additional resources:

• Join the Emerson Exchange 365 Community

• Connect with Emerson via Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube

About Emerson Emerson (NYSE: EMR) is a global technology and software company providing innovative solutions for the world’s essential industries. Through its leading automation portfolio, including its majority stake in AspenTech, Emerson helps hybrid, process and discrete manufacturers optimize operations, protect personnel, reduce emissions and achieve their sustainability goals. For more information, visit Emerson.com.

Grinding Techniques – Supplier of specialised abrasive products

Grinding Techniques has been a solution-driven manufacturer of specialised abrasive products since 1981, offering a wide range of high-quality cut-off and grinding discs, vitrified and resin bonded grinding wheels, specialised industrial diamond tools and a wide range of surface finishing products. In 2014, Grinding Techniques became part of the global Tyrolit group –a leading manufacturer of grinding and dressing tools.

At the forefront of bringing top quality innovation to application solutions, our extensive range allows a perfect product solution with optimum balance between cost and performance.

With over 90 million SMEs

(Small and Medium Scale Enterprises) in Africa, we are perfectly positioned to meet any customer demand when it comes to the supply of premium abrasives.

Choosing abrasives require careful consideration of certain elements to ensure both productivity and profitability. In any economic cli-

mate, overall cost reduction is a constant challenge, and product longevity remains a key element. If the need to replace or change products during application is less frequent, costs are not only reduced, but the bottom line is immediately influenced.

With a vast product range inclusive

of Tyrolit products we are best suited to service all major industries, including the Manufacturing sector – which is widely viewed as the key to economic growth for any continent, and known as one of the most profitable components of any business chain.

Boasting premium quality with excellent durability, and proven longevity, Tyrolit is undoubtedly the preferred choice when it comes to any cutting and grinding application.

The Tyrolit product range include three tiers, ranging from Basic and Standard to Premium, all offering application tools suited to various materials including metals, concrete, stone, and composite.

The Basic cutting and grinding range are engineered for enhanced performance, with minimised tool wear, while the Standard range not only offers cost-effective application solutions, but premium performance with all the international safety standards customers have come to expect.

For optimum results on solid steel and heavy-duty metals, with excel-

lent stability during application, the Standard cutting disc is the perfect choice.

When it comes to the Premium product line, the absolute best is delivered in cutting and grinding performance, boasting extreme fast cutting rates and excellent stock removal.

Apart from being manufactured to achieve optimum results during application, the Premium Tyrolit Stainless Steel range is free of contaminants to avoid impairments such as corrosion, pitting and or a reduction in the fatigue strength to the material.

With a special formula and production method, the Tyrolit non-ferrous range is best suited for a wide range of non- ferrous metal applications as it not only delivers optimum performance with reduced

application times but clogging and dulling of the cutting wheel is eliminated.

Available in different diameters and thicknesses, the Tyrolit cutting and grinding range will suit any application, from hand program to stationary operation.

Apart from cutting and grinding solutions, we also carry a range of coated and non-woven abrasives, the latest addition to our product range, to cater for a wide variety of surface conditioning applications.

Tyrolit non-woven abrasives are manufactured from abrasive grains that are fused to a three-dimensional support of nylon fibres. Uniform distribution of the abrasives combined with the softness of the material ensures a constant and consistent finish throughout the working process and product’s

lifetime for applications requiring a mirror, satin, or brushed finish. The most important characteristic and benefit of non-woven abrasives is that you can change or manipulate a surface finish without changing the shape and geometry of the workpiece.

With our complete non-woven range, surface finishing has never been easier.

From blending a scratch pattern

after stock removal and achieving a matt finish, to reworking the same matt finish to a mirror finish with any of our light de-burring wheels, buffing wheels, or polishing compounds, you can restore and renew any surface.

Our non-woven abrasives offer exceptional product longevity and are available in different sizes and derivates.

At Grinding Techniques, we do not

only offer premium quality products to your fingertips, but proven longevity of our product line could boost both output and profit of your business in the long run.

For a bespoke solution, contact us today.

Grinding Techniques – Your application, Our solution

+27 11 271 6400 | info@grindtech. com | www.grindtech.com

Mevas- Global Leader in Machinery and Heavy Equipment Inspection Services

Heavy Machinery Appraisal

In the mining sector, situations arise time and again in which assets have to be evaluated. Be it when there is a change of contractor in opencast mining or when technology is to be replaced on a larger scale. Especially when there is a change in ownership or when used construction machinery and transport vehicles are to be replaced, an external valuation or technical inspection is appropriate. Sometimes an appraisal by the supplier of the technology is sufficient. However, it

is often the case that each supplier can and wants to evaluate only his own products. It becomes more difficult when someone is needed to evaluate excavators, wheel loaders and mining trucks from different manufacturers and maybe additional processing plants. Here you need an appraiser who has a wide range of experience with different makes. Such an appraiser needs good management as well as technicians in different countries who are also willing to visit a mine in a distant country.

Who can inspect and evalu- ate mining equipment?

It is good to know that such a service exists. The German company MEVAS specialises in the appraisal and valuation of mining assets and construction machinery. Experienced inspectors are available in various countries and are ready to travel even to remote areas. The team has experience with large excavators, dump trucks, crushing equipment and anything else used in open pit or underground mining. Through the large number of proj-

ects already completed, a wealth of experience exists in both the technical analysis of condition and the evaluation of equipment.

How much does a mining-fleet appraisal cost?

The question of the price for evaluating a fleet of mining machines is not so easy to answer. It logically depends on the number of machines and their size. Another important cost factor is the location of the equipment. Which inspectors can be deployed to inspect the machines on site? By what means can the inspectors get into the mine? Are the machines still in use or have they been parked on the side-line for some time? Overall, one can conclude that compared to the value of the machines, the valuation is an insignificant cost factor. When taking over a fleet or buying individual machines, it may well be worthwhile to have the repair costs calculated in their current condition. An experienced valuer can be helpful here.

Why to choose Mevas?

A German management leads since 2006 a team of international inspectors. The team knows about equipment conditions and about valuation. Engineers are familiar with machinery of Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, Sandvik and many other brands. The range of inspected and valuated items reaches up to PC 3000, ZX 1900 CAT 777, larger rock drills, bulldozers up to D10T and any kind of articulated dump trucks.

Experienced Team of Engineers

Mevas has done a couple of asset audits and valuations for quarry, mining and open pit equipment. Engineers have been in Russia on pipeline projects, in African goldfields, in coal mines in Kentucky and on huge oil plantations in Western Africa. Upon request, some projects and clients for which the company is or was active can be named.

For more details visit the website www.mevas.net please. Sample reports can be provided and the management is available to discuss any requirement for machinery appraisal or inspection.

UMS Group hits the big league

Engineering and project management business UMS Group (UMS) has achieved significant growth in its short history – transitioning from a company in the throes of a turnaround strategy in 2018 to a company that reached financial stability in 2020 and has seen rapid growth ever since. LAURA CORNISH caught up with CEO DIGBY GLOVER to unpack a true success story that continues to unfold.

For new entrants aspiring to break into the mining market, one requirement is key: they must prove their abilities, sustainably. Although this is no easy feat, UMS has done this, fortunately on the foundations established by two strong market brands – UMS Shaft Sinkers and UMS METS.

Today, its reputation in the market is clear: UMS can comfortably deliver on its full span of capabilities, adding value to the project process, right from the early feasibility stages through to execution and mine handover. The journey to reach this point has seen Glover focus on growing the front end of the business, bringing in high level engineering skills capable of designing and engineering projects (both large and small).

“This has been a steady process but now we are starting to reap the rewards of the efforts we have made and that is evidenced in the

number of large-scale projects we have secured,” Glover highlights.

This includes engineering, design, construction and commissioning of process plants, shaft sinking, decline and underground projects secured or underway across the globe – and more specifically, the United States, Brazil, Botswana and most recently South Africa.

Having secured most of its larger-scale work outside of South Africa, Glover reveals that the company always included serving the local market in its strategy. This required serious evaluation of how to remain competitive in this market despite the challenges in it.

Having secured most of its larger-scale work outside of South Africa, Glover reveals that the company always included serving the local market in its strategy. This required serious evaluation of how to remain competitive in this market despite the challenges in it.

“Importantly, we believe our South African presence is set to grow –we are seeing many new opportunities emerging in the market which appears to be entering a growth phase, but it’s important to be selective about the work we take on and ensure our appetite for growth does not exceed our capabilities,” Glover notes.

“We are in the fortunate position now where our work pipeline is strong. And to a large extent, it’s now about delivering on the work that we’ve brought in, and that does require a huge amount of focus on continually nurturing the key skills to perform this work,” he further points out.

“UMS Group has experienced very

high growth over the past two years. Growth will however never be at the cost of our not being able to provide our clients with a highly professional service. We believe that a ‘growth at all costs’ mentality would ultimately be highly destructive. Our driver is to deliver on our commitments and ensure we add real value to clients on their projects. This will ensure long-term

sustainable growth for us.

“We will always be reviewing our strategy in terms of connecting with the market in a different way to better serve it in the medium term. Synergies are a great way to do this – either through joint ventures or more formal transactions,” Glover concludes.

Hitachi Construction Machinery and First Quantum Minerals announce zero emission partnership with signing of Letter of Intent

A proof of concept (“POC”) will be implemented as part of the LOI; Hitachi Construction Machinery supplying the first of its full battery, rigid frame dump trucks (“battery dump truck”) fitted with an ABB Ltd (“ABB”) battery, on-board charger and associated infrastructure by the end of FY2023 for technological feasibility trials at First Quantum’s Kansanshi copper-gold mine operations, including the S3 expansion projected for commissioning and first production in 2025.

This partnership represents a significant milestone for both compa-

nies: Hitachi Construction Machinery accelerating the validation of its zero emission mining product as part of its technology roadmap, and First Quantum progressing towards reducing its operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieving its long-term sustainability goals by applying this battery-electric technology at one of its largest mine sites.

Hitachi Construction Machinery and First Quantum have a long-standing relationship that will be further strengthened through this LOI and POC. The Kansanshi

mine is ideally suited to these trials due to its existing trolley assist systems, which align with development of battery dump trucks. First Quantum currently operates 41 Hitachi Construction Machinery (diesel) trolley trucks at Kansanshi, meaning much of the required infrastructure for the battery dump truck is already in place.

Developed in collaboration with ABB, Hitachi Construction Machinery’s battery dump truck utilizes onboard energy storage and trolley systems to generate power. Via a pantograph, the battery dump

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. and First Quantum Minerals Ltd today announce that they have entered into a Letter of Intent (“LOI”) to advance the development of sustainable mining solutions at First Quantum’s flagship mining operations in Zambia.

truck connects to overhead power lines, drawing power to allow the truck to run. At the same time, the generated energy is used to charge the battery system. This is separate to the regenerated power from the retarder braking system which will generate a high level of charge during haul road descent.

“ABB is delighted to continue its collaborative partnership with Hitachi Construction Machinery through the supply of highly energy-efficient DC/DC converters, fitting state of the art traction batteries forming together the most efficient package to electrify rigid dump trucks,” said Fabiana Cavalcante, Head of eMobility for ABB’s Traction Division. “Together, we look forward to advancing our co-creation efforts to develop solutions that enable all-electric mine operations and support customers like First Quantum in the achievement of their sustainability ambitions.”

Applying a proven technology from its current trolley truck system to the battery dump truck has allowed Hitachi Construction Machinery to expedite the development of its product to market. The retrofittable system design is also an added advantage, allowing current diesel truck fleets to be converted in the future to utilize the battery system, offering scalable fleet capability, minimal operational impact and greater value for customers such as First Quantum.

First Quantum’s fleet of Hitachi Construction Machinery equipment includes 39 EH3500ACII and two EH3500AC-3 rigid dump trucks across its mining operations in Zambia, as well as several construction-sized machinery across global operations. A further 40 EH4000AC-3 dump trucks equipped with the latest HCM/Bradken robust tray designs are on order for first delivery to Kansanshi in 2023, to support its S3 expansion project as it’s scaled up. Six new EX5600-7E (electric) excavators equipped with Bradken Eclipse buckets and incorporating loss tooth detection technology are also to be supplied, demonstrating the company’s long-term commitment to reducing GHG emissions across its operations.

Continued collaboration through this battery dump truck trial is expected to directly contribute to ongoing optimization of technology, infrastructure, safety and onsite deployment strategies and processes for mining sector benefit as we approach a future of energy transition and increased demand

for low-carbon equipment.

Beyond the mine site, the partnership is expected to facilitate significant investment in Zambia to deliver social and economic benefits. An in-country engine repair facility is planned for establishment, supported by both companies, which will provide an increase in employment and skills development opportunities within the local community.

Comment from Sonosuke Ishii, Senior Vice President and Executive Officer, President of Mining Business Unit for Hitachi Construction Machinery

“Hitachi Construction Machinery and First Quantum have a close and respectful working relationship – since their first equipment purchase in 2004 – and we are honored to cement this further through ongoing collaboration and support with the signing of this LOI. The battery dump truck represents the future, not only for the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group but for the mining industry as a whole, and we are pleased to establish this proving ground on an active mine site and work with First Quantum on advancing this zero emission solution. It’s one of the many solutions in development that will allow Hitachi Construction Machinery to contribute toward realizing a safe and sustainable society by solving critical issues related to carbon emissions reduction and climate change.”

Comment from John Gregory, Director of Mining for First Quantum Minerals

“Innovation in mining is integral to First Quantum’s philosophy and we’re excited about this technology partnership with Hitachi Construction Machinery. Pit electrification is an area of focus for First Quantum as we seek productive, safe and profitable decarboniza-

tion of our mining activities in order to deliver lower carbon intensity copper that will be essential for the global energy transition. First Quantum has spent more than ten years implementing trolley assist technology with Hitachi Construction Machinery at Kansanshi, an area in which we are now industry leading. We see this as a technological evolution towards future commercialization of a practical equipment battery solution through the use of our advanced trolley infrastructure.

“Together with in-pit crushing and conveying and electric drilling, First Quantum saves an estimated 100,000 tonnes of CO2 a year across our Zambian operations, while delivering improved productivity, cost savings and health and safety benefits. In collaborating with Hitachi Construction Machinery on battery dump trucks, we look forward to the next phase of pit electrification as we seek to further reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in line with our target of a 50% reduction by 2030.”

Information about First Quantum’s Kansanshi mine operations, Zambia

Kansanshi is a copper-gold mine located near Solwezi in the North Western Province producing copper concentrate, anode and cathode. It has been in operation since 2005. It has two open pits as well as a copper smelter which processes concentrate from Kansanshi and the company’s Sentinel mine, also in the North Western Province. Operations are more than 85% powered by renewable energy from the Zambian national grid. In May 2022, the company approved the S3 expansion, with the project expected to ramp up through 2025, increasing copper production to approximately 200,000 – 250,000 tonnes per annum. In Zambia, First Quantum directly employs more than 10,000 people, more than 95% of whom are Zambian.

Shedding Light on the Importance of Lighting in Mining and Industrial Environments

There is no doubt that mining is a challenging and hazardous industry that involves working in harsh and unpredictable environments. The safety of workers is paramount, and proper illumination is an essential attribute of creating a safe and

productive workplace. The importance of lighting in mining cannot be overstated, as it is critical for ensuring safe working conditions, improving productivity, and reducing accidents and injuries.

Safety is the most significant concern in the mining industry, and proper lighting is crucial for ensuring that workers can see their surroundings and potential hazards. With most mining being often located in remote and rugged areas, working underground adds an extra layer of danger. Inadequate lighting can lead to slips, trips, falls, and collisions with machinery or other workers, which can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Good lighting also helps workers to maintain a better visual focus, which can reduce fatigue and the risk of accidents caused by human error.

In an industry that requires workers to operate heavy machinery and carry out manual tasks, it is important to ensure that workers must not work in an environment where they have limited vision. Proper lighting is necessary for reducing eye strain and fatigue, which can increase productivity and efficien-

cy. Improved visibility also enables workers to perform their tasks more accurately, which can lead to less waste, better quality products, and increased profitability.

In addition to safety and productivity, lighting can also have an impact on the environment. The use of energy-efficient lighting technologies, such as LED lights, can reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, which can help mining companies to meet sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint.

Proper lighting in mining requires careful planning and design. The type of lighting used will depend on the type of mining operation, the location, and the environmental conditions. For example, underground mines require different lighting than open-pit mines, and lighting in arctic or desert environments must take into account extreme temperature variations.

Lighting systems must also be maintained regularly to ensure optimal performance. Dust and debris from mining activities can accumulate on light fixtures, reducing their efficiency and effectiveness. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent this from happening and ensure that lighting remains bright and clear.

The importance of lighting cannot be understated. It is critical for ensuring the safety and well-being of workers, improving productivity, and reducing accidents and injuries. Investing in proper lighting design and maintenance can have significant benefits for mining companies, including improved profitability and reduced environmental impact. By prioritizing lighting in their operations, mining companies can create safer, more productive, and sustainable workplaces for their employees

Malawi: Minister Mbawala Says Govt Needs K5bn to Establish National Mining Company

Minister of Mining Albert Mbawala has disclosed that his ministry needs K5 billion to start the establishment of a state-owned National Mining Company.

Mbawala made the remarks during Government Faces the Press where he updated the nation on the progress made in the mining sector.

He said the mining investment company shall promote the optimal development of the mineral sector as well as maximization of the national mineral revenue and social benefits.

“In order for this to materialize, the ministry require funds as the initial seed Capital for the company,” he said.

To this effect, Mbawala said, the ministry submitted a budget to Ministry of Finance for consideration for approval during the 2022/23 Mid Year Budget Review.

Due to the country’s other equally competing needs engendered by the lean resource envelope, he said, the ministry’s request for the operationalization of the company was not granted.

Mbawala however said the ministry will continue lobbying with the Treasury for consideration for a budget line for the operational-

ization of the state-owned mining company in the upcoming Annual Budget for 2023/24 financial year.

Mining equipment: suppressing the fire risks

As miners continue to work longhours in consecutive shifts, today’s heavy mining equipment – for both underground and overground operations – is in operation 24/7 to meet tight work schedules.

Operating in a high-risk environment; with dust, prolonged vibration and extended use, all elevating risk of overheating, these heavy-duty mining vehicles are inevitably prone to fire risk.

Fredrik Rosén, business manager, Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection, explores the fire risks associated with heavy equipment at mines, especially as vehicles and technologies evolve, and explains how mine operators can minimise downtime, while maximising safety.

What’s influencing fire risks?

Specific risks will be determined by individual risk assessments, which look at a mine’s operations as a whole and how vehicles operate in a particular environment. The majority of heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, though, are at risk from several common fire hazards in mines.

Overheating

Due to the challenging operating environment, mine vehicles inevitably gather dust and dirt. Undoubtedly, keeping the engine compartment clean reduces risks, but doing so might be difficult in some industries, like mining, where operations generate a lot of dust. Unchecked, though, this could increase the risk of overheating.

Overheating on its own isn’t nec-

essarily a sign of a potential fire. But due to the extensive operation of mining vehicles, prolonged vibration can increase the friction between different sections of the vehicle, resulting in increased wear and tear, as well as an increased risk of overheating.

If this wear and tear leads to loose cables, sparks or damage to the injection pipe, for example, combined with overheating, it can result in dangerous electrical or spray fires that are violent and quickly spread.

Electrification

In an effort to be more ecologically friendly, several mine operations are transitioning from conventional combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).

Although EVs are less likely to overheat, their lithium-ion batteries do present a unique fire risk. The four factors listed below are the primary reasons for battery fires:

Heat exposure

Mechanical impacts, such as collisions or mechanical failures Overcharging or undercharging Protection flaws, where particles can enter battery cells. Each of these has the potential to result in internal short circuits, putting the battery at a high risk of thermal runaway, which is characterised by a quick rise in temperature and the subsequent risk of fire, release of toxic gases and possibly even enormous explosions.

Thermal runaway is typically unnoticed by traditional fire detection systems until temperatures start to

increase, by which time they’ve frequently passed the point of no return. As a result, there’s a need for a unique detection and suppression solution that recognises the release of toxic gases before temperatures rise.

Automation

Accelerated by the COVID pandemic, mining automation has reached an all-time high. Remotely operated autonomous vehicles can now be used to boost uptime and reduce worker health risks.

However, when there are fewer persons present or nearby when mining vehicles are in use, it may be more challenging to spot fire threats. In this situation, an automated detection and suppression system is necessary to enhance response times, reduce the chance of downtime and avoid vehicle damage.

How can mine operators reduce the risks?

Recognise the particular risks connected to your mine first. As technology develops, keep re-evaluating your risk assessment map, as well as your systems for fire detection and suppression.

Whether a vehicle is electric, diesel, automatic or manual, there are distinct risks associated with each type that must be carefully addressed.

To effectively manage the relevant threats, maximise safety and save downtime, you should consider the whole mining operation and develop a customised solution.

Towards a Modern and Sustainable Mining Sector in Rwanda

There’s an old saying, “If it isn’t farmed, it’s mined”. Did you eat today? Thank your farming community.

Did you receive a call or email today? Thank your mining community.

Every piece of digital transmission (and electronic communication), whether is a phone call, Instagram post, email or Google search, is made possible by the mining community.

That’s right, none of these electronic systems could exist without key

minerals, many of which are beneath your feet, right here in Rwanda.

Tin and tantalum are two of these metals critical to the global economy.

Primarily used in the production of electronics, a large proportion of these metals containing minerals originate here in Rwanda and our neighbouring territories.

Looking to the decades ahead, tin and tantalum, alongside lithium, are set to be in greater demand than at any other time in history,

which could mean a real boost to the Rwandan economy.

However, from the lay person to the mining expert, there are many who have legitimate concerns about resource booms and I’m one of those people. You see, without sustainable practices, such as environmental stewardship, a good thing can turn bad.

In resource-boom economies, there are two major topics of concern; most obviously, environmental damage, but less obvious is something economists call ‘Dutch Disease’.

The environmental concerns are complex but, thankfully, Rwanda is amongst the world’s most conscientious observers of environmental stewardship. It is, therefore, unlikely that we will see standards in Rwanda lowered to accommodate short cuts in exploration and mine development.

If anything, it has been pleasing to see higher standards applied in recent years.

The transition towards a modern and sustainable mining sector requires industrialisation, which is underpinned by comprehensive investment in exploration and mining feasibility studies, before any mineral extraction takes place.

With the average mine containing between 100 – 400 grams per ton of tantalum, in a world where 2,000 tonnes of tantalum are consumed annually, Rwanda would need just

six industrial scale mines to secure 20% of the world market share in a sustainable manner.

A potential, which, it is more than ready to realise and, as industrialised mining incorporates environmental and closure rehabilitation plans, is a sure way for Rwanda to guarantee environmental concerns are alleviated, while concurrently achieving rising exports.

‘Dutch disease’ is more complex.

This phrase was coined in 1977 after a resource boom in the Netherlands where rapid inflows of foreign currency in a single sector, (oil), strengthened the Netherland’s currency to a point where traditional manufacturing sectors became uncompetitive on the international stage.

In Rwanda, this could be an acute concern if the minerals were simply exported without added value, as

has been the usual case across the African continent for decades.

However, during recent years the Rwandan government, has been able to attract value-addition to the sector just in time for the anticipated industry growth. First was the Luna tin smelter, closely followed by a gold refinery and, now, Africa’s only tantalum refinery has been built in the Bugesera Industrial Park, meaning that Rwanda has keenly addressed the top three mineral products to ensure value addition in-country.

So, what is the answer to a modern and sustainable mining sector? I think we are already living it.

A practical and efficient regulatory mining body (RMB) complemented by private sector investment in value addition, and socially responsible operations.

Zambian President has Shown Interest in Importing Angolan Refined Oil

Zambia has agreed to buy a stake in Angola’s Lobito refinery in Benguela Province along the Atlantic Coast.

President Hakainde Hichilema, during his three-day visit to Angola, assured his host that his country would invest in the Lobito refinery that is under construction.

“It makes no sense to import fuel from other parts of the world when we have a neighbouring producer,” Hichilema told journalists at a press conference in the capital Luanda after a meeting with President João Lourenço.

“I don’t know how we have managed to maintain this situation of buying fuel from Saudi Arabia and other parts of the world and not from our neighbour,” he added.

Hichilema arrived in Luanda on Tuesday and will visit the refinery in Benguela on Thursday, and the Lobito corridor, consisting of railroad and port, offering the shortest route linking Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) key mining regions to the Atlantic

Coast.

In July, the Angola government signed a 30-year concession with a consortium of Trafigura, Mota-Engil Engineering and Construction Africa, and Vecturis, Belgium, to operate rail services and offer logistical support for the Lobito corridor.

The rail line runs approximately 1290 kilometre from Luau on the eastern border with the DRC to the Lobito Port on the Atlantic.

Angola and Zambia are also conducting a feasibility study for a proposed oil pipeline from the Lobito refinery to Lusaka.

Lourenço said the refinery construction is expected to be concluded in 2026. “It is very natural that Zambia, as our neighbour, has a great interest in acquiring these fuels in Angola, in the neighbouring country, especially when Angola has a greater capacity to refine the crude oil it extracts,” Lourenço said.

The refinery is projected to process up to 200 000 barrels per day

when completed. According to a proposed governance structure, private investors, including Zambia, will own 70% of the refinery, with Angola state oil firm Sonangol controlling a 30% stake.

The Crucial Role of Lubricants in Mining: Keeping Operations Running Smoothly

Mining is a vital industry worldwide, responsible for extracting precious minerals and resources that power many aspects of modern life. However, mining operations can be extremely challenging, with high levels of stress placed on equipment, machinery, and vehicles. To ensure that these assets remain operational, reliable, and efficient, proper lubrication is essential.

Lubrication is the process of applying a lubricant – typically a liquid or semi-solid material – to reduce friction between moving parts. By reducing friction, lubrication prevents

wear and tear on equipment and machinery, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and extending the lifespan of critical assets.

In the mining industry, lubrication is particularly critical. Mining operations involve heavy machinery and equipment that operate under harsh conditions, including exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, dust, and other contaminants. Without proper lubrication, these machines and equipment quickly become damaged, leading to costly downtime and repairs.

Mining operations also require large volumes of lubricants to keep equipment running smoothly. According to the International Council on Mining and Metals, mining companies use up to 1% of their total operating costs on lubricants. This highlights the importance of choosing the right lubricants, as it can have a significant impact on operating costs and overall efficiency.

The selection of the right lubricants depends on several factors, including the type of equipment, the environment in which it operates, and the specific needs of the operation. For example, mining operations in dusty environments may require lubricants with high viscosity to prevent dust from sticking to equipment surfaces. On the other hand, operations in extreme temperatures may require lubricants that can withstand a wide range of temperatures without breaking down or losing their lubricating

properties.

Another critical factor in the proper lubrication of mining equipment is the frequency of lubrication. Regular lubrication is essential to prevent wear and tear on equipment and ensure that it runs efficiently. However, over-lubrication can also be a problem, leading to excess lubricant build-up and increased operating costs. Finding the right balance between over-lubrication and under-lubrication is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of mining equipment.

In summary, lubrication is an essential component of any mining operation, and choosing the right lubricants and ensuring proper lubrication practices can have a significant impact on efficiency, operating costs, and equipment lifespan. By investing in high-quality lubricants and implementing best practices for lubrication, mining companies in Africa can reduce downtime, minimize equipment failures, and maximize their return on investment.

Miner restarts operation in DRC

Mining company Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) and its joint venture partner commodity company La Générale des Carrières et des Mines (Gécamines), celebrated the kick-off of the restart of operations at the Boss Mining complex, with a ceremony held at its concession on November last year.

The phased restart of Boss Mining will start with the processing of the historically mined Kiwana fines at its Luita concession, paving the way for further development.

The complex, located in the Lualaba and Haut-Katanga provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has a long history of copper and cobalt production from significant openpit resources. Boss Mining was placed into care and maintenance in early 2019 to allow for ERG and Gécamines to assess different investments paths and conduct further studies to improve the operation’s economics and sustainability.

“We are not only celebrating the return to production at this time, but also our long-standing partnership with Gécamines and its profes-

sional team, without whom this restart would not have been possible.

“ERG believes that collaboration is the key to building a better future,” said ERG CEO Benedikt Sobotka.

Recognising that mining plays a vital role in the social and economic upliftment of its host communities, ERG aims to develop and scale operations at Boss Mining in a sustainable way to enable positive, longer-term social, environmental and economic outcomes.

“We are proud that this phase of the restart will create around 750 jobs for DRC citizens, primarily recruited from the surrounding communities, ensuring that direct members of our communities are the primary beneficiaries of Boss Mining’s activities,” added Sobotka. “As a government, we can only rejoice once again because the restarting of an operation means not only the creation of jobs for our population, but also that the tax revenue of the province will increase. And every time there is production, we know that there is a small amount that goes into the government’s tax coffer that helps us develop other sectors of our society,” com-

mented Lualaba Interior and Security Provincial Minister Kapenda Wa Kapenda Déodat. The phased restart will concentrate on processing historically mined fines over the next 16 months to produce copper cathodes and cobalt hydroxide. The operation will ramp up over the coming months to its full capacity, producing on average 1 800 t of copper cathode and 300 t a month of cobalt hydroxide, by March 2023.

“The current restart is only the beginning of our journey and will provide financing for further potential development, exploration and other mining-related activities at Boss Mining.

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“I am convinced that the revival of Boss Mining’s activities will allow for the creation of an important number of new jobs in the future and the union of countless families from the surrounding communities and the four corners of the country,” said Gécamines CEO Ntambwe Ngoy Kabongo.

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Taiwan’s thingnario delivers PV production insights from 3,200 PV sites

Taiwan-based solar PV monitoring service provider, thingnario, which uses AI to interpret large data sets, has reported that large solar parks can save as much as US$4,000 per megawatt in avoidable losses each year. The data comes from over 3,200 PV sites in Taiwan, studied over four years. The company believes higher-quality O&M monitoring can recover much of these costs through its proven strategies.

Thingnario’s report, titled “Taiwan PV Performance Report,” presents its insights courtesy of over 100,000 IoT devices including inverters, power meters, pyranometers, weather stations, and more, and covering 45% of the new installation market in Taiwan. The total weight of the data totals more than 273 terabytes.

While the report focuses on avoiding losses, other interesting data nuggets emerge: although Taiwan covers just 394km from north to south, southern Taiwan has most of the island’s solar plants to avoid more persistent clouds and rain in the north.

Avoidable losses

The report focuses more on recov-

erable energy losses, which averages 2.16% of all energy generated per plant. It shows at least one-third of the losses can be fixed through monitoring and swift, proper O&M, says thingnario.

The report also looks at avoidable, recoverable losses and quantifies what those are. Identification of the avoidable losses comes from separating recoverable and unrecoverable losses, the latter of which is not considered in the report. These losses are considered irreversible, and relate to module losses and orientation, ohmic losses in wiring, inverter conversion losses, and so on.

Recoverable losses are further addressed. These losses are then split between availability, referring to complete losses due to entire equipment failures or outages, and performance losses. Performance losses are down to equipment effectiveness and inefficiencies, where maximum efficiencies are maintained through better maintenance and control. An example is if a fan on an inverter fails, or the inverter overheats. This is recorded as a performance loss, given these losses are able to be rectified through correct management

namely quality monitoring and proper maintenance.

Thingnario’s data points to better outcomes for solar parks with proper O&M. The report suggests that performance losses in particular, can be minimized via monitoring systems that combine with data analysis, providing both accurate and instant notifications, followed by rapid action from qualified maintenance teams.

The company suggests that using its own AI monitoring system combined with a well-trained and responsive O&M team, helps save US$4,200 per 1 MW. That figure comes from data suggesting that the average downtime for equipment repair sits at 123.6 hours. However, a better O&M team can reduce that downtime to 52.1 hours. In turn, on average, that helps to reduce recoverable losses to only 2.16% of all generated energy.

Per megawatt, the losses on average are 29,3768 kWh, but a better O&M performance can reduce this average to 8,475 kWh, a 70% saving.

AI magic

General PV plant availability can

be analyzed through inverter, MPPT, and string downtime monitoring. However exact performance losses remain complicated to evaluate, with production data unable to tell the full story.

Thingnario’s approach is to use AI to understand the amount of electricity that is being lost and where improvements can be made, by learning patterns and comparing the real-time performance and real-time environmental changes.

Thingnario developed deep-learning algorithms that discover different kinds of on-site, and sometimes hidden abnormalities. The system can calculate the possible loss, and immediately inform the O&M team of the issues. The process is improved further by the learning

system collecting swift feedback from the O&M team, creating an iterative system that keeps the algorithm upgrading and evolving. In turn, this provides an accurate, comprehensive analysis of the performance and abnormal issues.

FIT causes flux

Taiwan’s high feed-in tariff rate (FIT) has previously insulated domestic PV sites from significant losses from poorer O&M practices. FITs started as high as $0.35 per kWh for small scale roof-top solar, and $0.25 for ground-mounted utility scale solar installations. However, with lower FITs now taking over, priced at around $0.14 per kWh, PV site monitoring is now much more important, and monitoring is the first step towards actionable management,

via correct and transparent information.

William Kao, COO of thingnario, noted the transition catching out some PV investors. “The energy revolution is happening now,” he said. “It is vital to pay our attention to know how to utilize each equipment we invest in for renewable energy at this critical turning point year.”

The moves in Taiwan to reduce FITs follow similar situations in Australia, UK, and Germany, which reduced large-scale PV tariffs in 2011 following drastically decreasing costs for PV installations and caused shifts in operational approaches.

Rise of the robot (cleaners)

Addressing utility scale

Industry insiders clearly understand that the cleaning of utility-scale solar sites is only sustainable with automation and that its application is not so much an “if” as a “when.” It seems that many of today’s largescale solar sites are in some stage of adopting automation, whether

that be full or partial.

Additionally, one of the top considerations for choosing a robotic cleaning solution is its ability to clean thousands of modules efficiently. Some 25% of the survey’s participants named the ability to clean a large number of modules

as one of the top three features they expect from an automated cleaning system. With solar site capacities reaching hundreds, and even thousands of megawatts, cleaning modules is no longer sustainable with manual labor, either physically or financially. Without automation, asset owners are liter-

ally – and figuratively – leaving their panels in the dust.

Sloping terrain

No two solar parks are the same and when projects are situated in remote and uneven desert terrain, site developers must customize structures to cater for unique installations. When choosing to optimize a site with robotic cleaning, it needs to be with a technology that does not compromise the structure’s integrity. One of the key factors site owners and managers are looking for is compatibility with a variety of module types and trackers while also overcoming sloping terrain and challenging land structures. The ability to overcome challenging structures and sloping terrain was the top technical requirement cited by survey participants, with more than 62% naming it as one of the top three concerns regarding robotic cleaning technology.

“Ecoppia has taken its decade of experience, and cleaning over 7 billion modules, to create a variety of robust robotic solutions to work for varying terrains and module layouts and we analyze tens of thousands of robots’ daily operations in differing environments and conditions,” says Jean Scemama, the CEO of Ecoppia. “This allows us to customize our new features and developments to customers’ various site needs. We’re proud to offer hybrid solutions for sites with a variety of row lengths, structures, and

terrains – such as our latest project with Azure Power in India. Our teams keep developing new features to cater to O&M’s constantly changing needs and the growing complexity in site design.”

ity; price and warranty; and service were named among the top three technical characteristics that developers consider when choosing to automate cleaning, making up 54%, 47%, and 44% of responses,

Safety and reliability

The survey results indicate that quality of cleaning is at the forefront of minds when it comes to robotics, with 65% of participants naming it as a top factor influencing which robotics to choose. Product reliabil-

respectively. Given the long life cycle of solar projects, lasting up to 25 years, it is clear that long term safety is of the utmost importance.

With manual cleaning, a solar module can only be cleaned a

handful of times a year and, subsequently, there are major risks such as damage to the PV panel’s anti-reflective coating caused by brush cleaning, which decreases power output. Using robotic cleaning diminishes the impact of unpredictable factors such as dust storms or heavy soiling, by cleaning site panels daily as opposed to the reduced cleaning frequency that manual processes permit.

Similarly, cleaning robots themselves must be highly reliable because the application of automated cleaning is intended to enhance productivity. More than 50% of survey respondents named safety as one of the top three technical characteristics they expected of a cleaning solution.

Safety priority

Safety also applies to the manufacturing of robotic cleaning systems themselves. Providers need to include thorough quality assurance and testing of temperature endurance, wind resistance, and UV resistance to check that quality is at all times embedded in the robotic manufacturing process. With the automated cleaning itself, there are safety considerations and the robots must not cause damage to modules, even when it is potentially unseen damage, such as to module coatings.

Considering a switch to robotics also involves a shift from looking at cleaning as an ad-hoc service, to engaging in a long term partnership with a provider which will not only be providing equipment but also maintenance services for the lifespan of a PV project. Indicative of this, is that 44% of respondents selected product warranties and service throughout a robotic cleaning system’s lifetime as a top-three factor when selecting a vendor.

However, the majority of the surveyed respondents that did not use robotics consider cleaning as a service, realizing it facilitates optimal production. Therefore, investing in automated cleaning is essentially adding another O&M asset to the site. Ensuring the quality of the solution requires more than trust and certification with reputable bodies goes a long way to verifying that the robotic solution under consideration has been fitted with quality as well as durable parts that are built for extreme weather conditions and longevity.

LCOE over initial cost

The cost of robotic cleaning is a major concern. However, the importance of cost diminished among respondents who had experience with automation, and therefore have developed an appreciation of its value. Some 47% of survey participants who had not deployed robotic cleaning indicated that price is their top constraint. Additionally, those respondents also named price among their top factors when choosing a provider. Once solar site managers implement robotics, however, the increased value and reduced levelized cost of energy (LCOE) it brings to their daily operations is likely to supersede their concerns about cost.

The dynamic of value over cost, among those with an experience with robotic cleaning, was borne out in the survey results in other ways. For those who have already been using robotic cleaning solutions, cost was not a top concern. When asked for their top three influencing factors when choosing robotics, price was ranked sixth out of eight choices, ranking below the quality of cleaning, product reliability, warranty and service throughout a project’s lifespan, certifications by module providers, and a local team presence for O&M provision.

Concerns removed

It seems that for companies that are currently using manual cleaning solutions, any concerns about their current cleaning strategy mostly relate to the pricing of the services, making up 21% of their responses. Their other concerns largely considered the managerial overhead that robotic cleaning will require, and ensuring the cleaning quality is high. Those were named as the two other top disadvantages, making up 20% and 17% of the responses, respectively.

According to Scemama, the risk of damage posed by low-cost, low-quality robotic cleaning should also be considered. “There are solar projects where low-cost automated solutions were installed and had to be removed due to poor performance, high maintenance costs, or even damage they caused to the modules,” he said. “Our robots have been designed to provide continuous and reliable cleaning for 25 years, in addition to our warranty and service throughout a project’s lifespan.”

A mindset focused on price hinders the ability to see the lifetime savings robotic cleaning can offer and can even cause module damage or the disruption to O&M schedules due to failures.

Need for a trusted partner

Capital expenditure (capex) might be one thing weighing on developers’ minds when it comes to adding robotics to a solar site but operating expenditure (opex) is an equally important factor, and the survey data indicated that this was understood by the industry. When asked which business model is preferred for robotic cleaning, nearly half opted for a combined capex-opex model, while more than 25% indicated that leasing was a desired model.

Having a trusted partner gives a full understanding of project expenditure and greater project efficiency. This is because O&M is no longer blinded by variable, ad-hoc maintenance costs.

But it is not just finding a trusted partner that can make robotics viable for projects – it also relies on the undertaking and enthusiasm of O&M and asset managers. Asset managers and O&M providers were seen as the key drivers of implementation, as indicated by 56% of the responses, while 46% of those surveyed who did not have auto-

mation, believed its implementation should be down to management.

It appears the real drivers of automation are the on-the-ground personnel and that they have the real power to drive robotic implementation.

The pv magazine/Ecoppia survey

The survey comprised 23 questions exploring aspects of module cleaning for respondents who already deploy robotic cleaning and those that don’t

The questions covered both technical and commercial aspects of robotic cleaning and PV project O&M

The survey was conducted between May and July 2022 and was completed by hundreds of respondents from all over the world

It was first launched during a pv magazine webinar in April 2022

The aim of this first-of-its kind survey was to better understand the expectations and needs of the solar market in relation to robotic cleaning, which itself represents a radical change in the way O&M is con-

ducted at large scale solar sites.

At a glance

The robotics selected for a PV project matter and there is an understanding among the industry that safety, quality, and reliability are the most important factors. O&M teams are concerned with finding robotic cleaning systems that work for their unique structure and geography and they look for a partner that can adapt to their individual site needs.

Through the survey, one of the important takeaways was that cost is not the only factor in choosing a robotic cleaning partner. Expense is, however, an obstacle that needs overcoming, as it holds asset owners and managers back from reaping the benefits that robotic cleaning can deliver in ultimately reducing a site’s LCOE. Finally, the capex-only model hinders progress and limits the ability of asset managers to keep up with changing requirements in solar energy innovation, which is inevitable in projects that last up to 25 years.

Graco releases Quantm double diaphragm pump

Graco Inc has launched its next generation electric-operated double diaphragm pump – the Quantm – for industrial and hygienic applications.

The Quantm pump features a new electric motor design that Graco says is up to eight times more efficient than a standard pneumatic pump. The pump is suitable for nearly any fluid transfer application and offers a wide range of construction materials to support multiple industrial and hygienic applications, including chemical processing, water treatment, paint manufacturing, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical.

The electric Quantm pump is designed to be a highly reliable drop-in replacement for current pneumatic pumps or greenfield

construction. This pump is built for harsh industrial or hygienic environments, yet its innovative and efficient design is lightweight and easy to maintain. With built-in controls and no gearbox, the pump also fits seamlessly into most fluid transfer applications.

“The Quantm pump isn’t a new twist on old technology. It’s an entirely innovative design that changes how pumps perform in factories and other installations around the world,” said Dan Purkat, senior product marketing manager at Graco. “We’re excited to have created an advanced, extremely efficient design that is lightweight and provides significantly lower lifetime costs than other pump technologies. The pump modernizes operations by greatly reducing energy cost. This empowers indus-

trial manufacturers to protect and grow margins and measurably contribute to energy savings, compliance and environmental stewardship efforts.”

“Our new Quantm pump is the perfect solution for upgrading your less-efficient air operated pumps,” said Jeffrey Shaffer, senior product marketing manager at Graco. “The same great self-priming, stalling, seal-less design with smooth, steady flow is a must-have for in-process applications, filling systems and hygienic applications. The powerful new FluxCore motors and drives deliver up to eight times more continuous torque at low speeds than conventional motors, and the plug-and-play installation allows you to easily replace existing pumps without additional investment or infrastructure rework.”

CPChem, QatarEnergy take FID for USGC petrochemical complex

Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. LLC (CPChem)—a joint venture of Chevron Corp. and Phillips 66—and QatarEnergy have reached positive final investment decision (FID) to move forward with construction of the partners’ previously delayed grassroots petrochemical complex along the Texas Gulf Coast in Orange, Tex., about 113 miles east of Houston (OGJ Online, July 15, 2019).

To be named Golden Triangle Polymers Co. LLC—a newly formed joint-venture partnership of CPChem (51%) and QatarEnergy (49%)—the proposed $8.5-billion integrated polymers complex will include a 2.08-million tonne/year (tpy) ethylene cracker and two 1-million tpy high-density polyethylene (HDPE) units for production of proprietary Marlex polyethylene pellets for sale primarily to manufacturers in the Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, the partners said upon announcing FID on Nov. 16.

Targeting 25% lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than similar US and European plants in support of CPChem and QatarEnergies’ commitments to enabling a reduced-carbon future, the complex comes as part of the companies’ aim of meeting increased global demand for polymers, as well as the next phase of QatarEnergies’ downstream growth strategy,

which includes major investments in ethylene, ethylene derivatives, and general polymers, said Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, QatarEnergy’s president and chief executive officer.

Scheduled for immediate start of construction, the Golden Triangle Polymers complex is slated for commissioning in 2026, the companies said.

Earlier this year, CPChem and QatarEnergy confirmed they also are moving forward with a previously announced plan to jointly build and operate the proposed Ras Laffan petrochemical project (RLPP) in Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar (OGJ Online, June 9, 2022). The RLPP, too, will feature a 2.08-million tpy ethane cracker and two HDPE units.

CPChem and QatarEnergy already serve as JV partners in Ras Laffan Olefins Co. and Qatar Chemical Co. Ltd., which respectively operate petrochemical production complexes in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed, Qatar.

The partners previously deferred taking FID on the Golden Triangle Polymers project in 2020 amid a then-uncontrolled global pandemic (OGJ Online, Aug. 2, 2021; Aug. 3, 2020).

Contract awards

Acting as manager of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) activities on behalf of the Golden Triangle Polymers JV, CPChem—which also will operate the complex upon startup—confirmed awarding the following contracts for the project:

ZDJV—a joint venture of Zachry Industrial Inc. (Zachry Group) and DL USA Inc.—will deliver EPC on the two HDPE units.

T.EN Stone & Weber Process Technology Inc. will provide engineering and procurement (EP) for the furnace portion of the ethane cracker.

PCL Industrial Construction Co. will provide construction-related services for the ethane cracker furnace.

JKJV—a joint venture of JGC America Inc. and Kiewit Energy Group Inc.—will deliver EPC on additional but unspecified sections of the ethane cracker.

BMZ Third Coast Partners—a joint venture of Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company Inc. and Zachry Group—will execute works related to utilities and infrastructure at the complex.

Emerson Process Management LLLP will serve as the project’s main automation contractor.

W.T. Byler Co. Inc. will manage heavy civil work for the entire site and deliver EPC for the project’s planned rail and storage-in-transit yard.

Clough enters voluntary administration – it’s time to rethink how we manage our megaprojects

With yet another major Australian construction company entering voluntary administration this week, it’s becoming clear that just throwing money at projects and expecting the industry to take care of itself from there isn’t working. And what support is being given to the small to medium-sized contractors being caught up in all these collapses? It’s time to rethink how we manage our megaprojects.

Perth-based engineering and construction company, Clough, is the latest in a growing line of industry giants to run into financial difficulties and be placed into voluntary administration. The move comes after the recent sale purchase agreement between Murray & Roberts who own Clough, and Webuild, fell through.

This isn’t a small hiccup – Clough is

involved in delivering some of Australia’s biggest construction projects, some of which are integral to the energy transition, including Snowy 2.0, EnergyConnect, and the Waitsia Gas Project Stage 2.

While Clough was founded in Australia, it was acquired by South African firm Murray & Roberts in 2013. Interestingly, ProBuild was also founded in Australia and bought out by a South African firm before its fall.

One of the main reasons several Australian construction contractors have been acquired by overseas companies could be put down to how much focus the Federal Government has on actually improving growth in the sector, which is to say not much.

The Government’s view of simply

paying for infrastructure and expecting this to progress the industry, hasn’t worked.

Industry Growth Centres have been established for six key growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing; cyber security; food and agribusiness; medical technologies and pharmaceuticals; mining equipment technology and services (METS); and oil, gas and energy resources.

These Industry Growth Centres look at the best approaches to strengthen the industries they focus on. Every critical industry has been highlighted for growth except construction, despite our massive project pipeline and critical skill shortage.

A construction-focused growth centre could help produce pro-

ductivity improvements to advance the industry and save millions of dollars. Just a 0.1 per cent productivity savings could free up $100 million from the $100 billion infrastructure pipeline nationally.

The risks fall to small and medium-sized contractors

When these major construction companies like Clough and ProBuild collapse, the industry and media look to the projects that might be delayed and the workforces impacted. However, there are barely any conversations around the small to medium-sized contractors who now have to deal with delayed payments and a potentially diminishing pipeline.

The way Australia procures its infrastructure with these larger companies and the poor practices we currently have do nothing to encourage local entrepreneurial contractors to invest further in their businesses as, from their point of view, all they are doing is multiplying their risk.

More support must be provided to these small to medium-sized contractors, as well as First Nations owned businesses, to protect them

from these risks. The first step in solving these challenges lies in rethinking how Australia manages its large-scale investments.

Translating words into actions

With issues arising from all major construction projects, who is tasked with capturing the lessons learnt and steering the industry forwards? We’ve started to do this through our industry associations, with organisations such as Infrastructure Australia assessing where we should be focusing our attention, but the outcomes presented aren’t being translated into actions because there is no one to drive them.

All these innovative ideas to transform the industry – something that the Government should be driving – is being wasted. There is so much knowledge, lessons and experience that is in the graveyards, and with the current industry approach to projects, more will end up there, leaving the construction industry in this uncertain state.

Will we get to the point of the industry needing a Royal Commission before something is done? This happened with education and banking – but how many more

companies will we see collapse and how many projects will be delayed in the meantime? We’ve reached the point where the industry can’t afford to wait.

About the author

Shivendra Kumar is a global construction business advisor and owns the consultancy firm, Shivendra & Co, where he helps small to medium construction businesses increase their growth potential and profitability, improve their processes and execute business strategies.

Shivendra is using his extensive industry experience from previous roles at large infrastructure organisations including Siemens and Downer to transform the construction industry from the ground up and be a voice for small to medium sized contractors.

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