• MINING INDABA
Supplied by Hydro Power Equipment ( HPE )
Trace Digital Ore Identification create a digital trail and monitor mine conditions in real-time , allowing operators to make quick adjustments to reduce energy use , improve safety and lower environmental impact .
The digital revolution has also spurred companies to redefine operational processes to be more agile and resilient . For African mining operations , where geography and logistical challenges can hinder production , digital twins are revolutionising how mine operations are managed . The Digital Business Case
A modern water powered rockdrill in action in a South African PGM mine . This proudly South African designed and manufactured mining equipment from HPE , makes for safer and faster drilling at the least possible cost and water consumption .
Evaluation and Tracking Tool by Digital Twin uses Excel based calculations and reporting while the app tracks the performance of implemented initiatives against expected benefits . The web-based sensor analytics platform ingests , stores , analyses and displays data , providing digital initiative evaluation ( financial / non-financial ) at the mine or across several mines .
In addition , cloud computing is enabling African mining companies to store , process , and analyse data more efficiently . With cloud-based solutions , data from different sites can be centralised , allowing teams to make informed , data-driven decisions no matter where they are . For example , mine managers can access performance metrics , environmental conditions , and equipment health in real-time , leading to faster responses to potential issues and fewer delays in production . As digital transformation accelerates across Africa , companies that adopt these technologies are better positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive market .
Environmental sustainability Mining companies across Africa recognise the growing importance of Environmental , Social , and Governance ( ESG ) principles . Investors , governments and communities are demanding greater transparency , responsibility and action from the mining sector to address environmental and social impacts . A strong ESG framework is no longer just a regulatory requirement but a strategic imperative to attract investment and secure long-term sustainability . To support effective interventions , the ESG Impacts Lens Dashboard was developed through collaboration by the Mandela Mining Precinct and partners including The Research Institution for Innovation and Sustainability ( Riis ). The cloud-based application integrates three dashboards to analyse and display data sourced from mining operations , delivering insights on Business Priorities , Socio-Economic Transformation and the Impacts of Automation .
Environmental sustainability remains a top priority . Traditional mining processes are energy-intensive and produce significant emissions and waste . Many African mining companies are now exploring renewable energy sources , such as solar and wind power , to reduce their carbon footprint . For example , the mining industry in South Africa has seen a surge in solar projects , with companies harnessing solar energy to power mining operations in remote regions . These renewable energy initiatives lower greenhouse gas emissions , reduce reliance on fossil fuels and result in considerable cost savings in the long run .
Supplied by AZMET Technology and Projects
Water scarcity is another pressing environmental concern for mining operations . Some African regions face severe water stress , and traditional mining processes are water intensive . Mining companies are adopting water recycling technologies and more efficient water management systems to mitigate this issue . These solutions reduce water usage and decrease environmental degradation , preserving valuable water resources for local communities . With their Maxi Bolter and PP3 power pack , MEMSA member Hydro Power Equipment ( HPE ) has developed a safe , fast , environmentally friendly , water wise , and complete roof bolting solution which can be operated remotely via umbilical controls . The power pack delivers high pressure water to operate three maxi bolters in a typical bord & pillar mining section and can be transported via utility vehicle cassette . Our members have demonstrated that – counter-intuitively – water powered equipment consumes less water than pneumatic equivalents . Hydro Power Systems ( HPS ) were recognised in 2022 for their HD202
40 • African Mining • January 2025 www . africanmining . co . za