EXCURSION •
Zondo is of the view that project timelines are often underestimated, particularly in relation to manufacturing and delivery schedules, which ultimately underestimate the processing risks during the planning phase.“ As an ISOaccredited manufacturer, we follow strict quality and process controls. These checks reduce the risk of failure or malfunction. Adhering to disciplined manufacturing processes is critical to managing risk effectively.”
Laser cutting produces precision while reducing the need for secondary finishing.
Zondo admits that safety requirements have become significantly more stringent, particularly in mining and rightly so. As a result, this has had a huge impact on how processing equipment is designed and specified presently.
“ Whether it’ s substations, metering kiosks or mini-subs, equipment must now meet far higher safety standards. Products must not pose ignition risks, especially in underground environments,” says Zondo.“ At the same time, mining is a highly cyclical industry, which has forced customers to become extremely cost-conscious. Designs must meet functional requirements while remaining as costeffective as possible.”
Enter technology, such as laser cutting and laser welding, which allow for far greater precision and consistency – improving quality while reducing waste and rework. Ultimately, it comes down to three factors: safety, costs and adaptability.
Due to the mature history of the South African mining industry, mines inevitably face frequent operational challenges.“ Many South African mines are over a century old and are now in a refurbishment phase. We are often asked to assess ageing equipment and determine what can be refurbished, modified or replaced,” he says.“ Our approach includes site visits, condition assessments and collaborative discussions with mining houses to identify where refurbishment can extend asset life and reduce costs, rather than defaulting to full replacement,” he adds.
Cost remains the dominant driver. Environmental compliance also plays an increasing role. The materials used, whether mild steel or stainless steel, must align with a mine’ s environmental management plans. Design decisions must consider lifecycle costs, environmental impact and operational efficiency simultaneously.
On the role played by local manufacturers in supporting mining operations, especially in remote or high-risk environments, he says,“ Local manufacturing is vital. It supports skills development, employment and economic growth. It also strengthens the mining value chain by ensuring faster turnaround times, accessible aftersales support, and local expertise.”
“ We actively invest in skills development and technology advancement. Twice a year, we send employees to Germany and China to study emerging manufacturing technologies and bring that knowledge back into our operations,” he says.
Systems will inevitably require maintenance over time. Working with local manufacturers ensures faster support, easier communication and reduced downtime when failures occur, says Zondo, also emphasising that strong relationships between mining and manufacturing are essential. With mining being one of South Africa’ s greatest strengths, collaboration ensures long-term sustainability for both sectors.
“ In a country such as South Africa, rich in mineral resources, local beneficiation and manufacturing capacity should be actively supported. This has significant socio-economic benefits and contributes to long-term national development. We may be smaller than global players, but by continually improving our products, aesthetics and technical capabilities, we remain competitive. International exposure helps us bring global best practice back into local manufacturing,” he says.
In conclusion, Zondo emphasises that mining remains a key contributor to South Africa’ s economy, and that manufacturing houses’ role is to support the sector through quality manufacturing, innovation and skills development. •
“ Demand ultimately drives everything. When markets are down, activity slows; when markets are buoyant, refurbishment and upgrades increase. We work closely with clients, following their requirements while offering recommendations based on experience and environmental considerations,” says Zondo.
Zondo explains that electricity costs in South Africa have increased dramatically, to the point where some mining operations have become unviable.“ Our contribution lies in designing protective kiosks and enclosures that reduce vandalism and electricity theft. Once theft is reduced, consumption becomes more controlled, which helps improve efficiency and, over time, supports cost containment across the system.”
ISO-aligned processes are embedded into everyday workflows.
www. africanmining. co. za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • March 2026 • 21