MINING INDABA •
Hydrovessel , a piston pump with digital sensors and 4IR capability to enable remote monitoring for greater efficiency .
Enhancing safety Safety is paramount in mining , where hazardous conditions can put workers at significant risk . Future-proofing African mining means enhancing safety measures and creating a culture of care and prevention . Modern technologies , including real-time monitoring and predictive analytics , are playing a key role in improving safety standards . MEMSA members have risen to the challenge by bringing improved safety designs to market . GR Mining effectively reduced the time and cost involved in commissioning underground refuge bays , by designing collapsible , easy to erect and legally compliant emergency toilets . Their vent trapdoor is designed to open automatically and improve airflow when dangerous levels of methane are detected .
The patented Mud Rush Chute developed by SKW Project Engineering underscores a commitment to zero harm within the mining industry . The double-door system ensures safety and efficiency , a small feeder door controls the regular flow of ore , while the larger safety door plays a critical role in emergencies , activating to provide an escape for operators during mud rush incidents while also serving as a barrier to prevent mud ingress into the tunnel . Buraaq Mining ' s Low Profile Drill Rig , suitable for low profile applications , demonstrates significant safety enhancements and is MHSA regulation Level 9 ready . The programmable safety features include seatbelt and door interlocks and a canopy warning alarm , digital pre-start procedure with operator verification , data logging to track machine events , a six-nozzle automatic fire suppression system and has a wireless remote operation up to 100m .
SME member Khentsa Steel developed a tube pressure testing device , which aids the seam welded tube industry to ensure the safety and integrity of products such as lancing tubes which are used in mineral processing .
Innovations such as these are reshaping safety protocols , reducing accident rates , and promoting a culture of safety across the African mining landscape .
Developing sustainable practice for efficiency As African mining companies continue to innovate , they are also focusing on developing sustainable practices that meet international standards , increase profitability and increase ‘ Life of Mine ’ ( LoM ).
Nkangala Mining ’ s Intelligent Face-Drill patented alignment system , uses 4 reference point sensors ensuring a 90-degree alignment to the face at all times , even on sloping faces allowing parallel drilling of subsequent holes . Drill accuracy ensures consistent particle size , resulting in improved removal operations , greater efficiency and cost saving . Boasting a Level 4 diesel engine , the drill has automated features meaning less-experienced operators can drill at a more predictable level .
Fabchem Mining ' s patented SPT100 SMART Pull Tester for roof support digitises and significantly speeds up collection and reporting of pull testing on bolts and split-sets , while Report Writer software saves time and eliminates human error . Boasting electronic load and displacement sensors and ten load indication LEDs , data can be downloaded to a PC , smartphone or tablet .
DaltronX have patented Drill Steels which surpass traditional rubber ferrules by reducing slippage and coolant leakage . Advanced electric upsetting manufacturing processes , hexagonal cross-section and integrally formed collar ensure a precise chuck fit . The drill steels ‘ Bulb / Washer ’ ferrule and new Drill Depth Indicator endure 150 % more force with superior durability to operational pressures , fewer failures , less downtime , and a safer work environment .
The Trackledon Track Roller Manipulator ’ s patented dedicated track rolling and manipulating attachment , developed by Machinery Contractors in collaboration with a global OEM . Modular design can be attached to a forklift or fitted to the workshop floor allowing for the safe , remote controlled lifting of tracks . Developed with a cable reeling attachment it offers a safe , efficient and cost effective alternative for workshops .
While in the processing space , Energy and Densification Systems ( EDS ) designed a compact vertical Multi-Shaft Mill utilising highspeed impacts to break down particles with large reduction ratios , low energy consumption and improved liberation compared to traditional milling methods .
Multotec ’ s innovative Pulping Chute contributes to significantly lowering costs and reducing downtime in the ore washing and scrubbing process . The chute scrubs ore material in a carrier liquid , liberating unwanted materials such as mud , clay , and slime from the surfaces of the ore ; with no moving parts , and by using the potential and kinetic energy of a slurry feed .
Future-proofing African mining means enhancing safety measures and creating a culture of care and prevention .
www . africanmining . co . za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • January 2025 • 41