Cradle to grave
Technology to extend mine life
This means that a higher power conversion can
be achieved by using customised solutions that
optimise power delivery and reduce the total
cost of ownership.
In November 2017, Eaton undertook a
large-scale project to deliver medium voltage
(MV) switchgear consisting of 14 panel
UX switchboards for Northam Platinum
Mining. The project replaced three ageing
and redundant substations consisting of a
four-panel, seven-panel and three-panel
switchboard. The new panels minimised
downtime, increased plant efficiency and
improved safety of personnel.
Mining operations can effectively improve
productivity by ensuring machines run more
reliably around the clock, without fail. If there
is a breakdown, these facilities are serviced
quicker, using predictable methods and
using parts that are readily available to keep
downtime to a minimum.
New video surveillance tools detect process
and security problems before they occur, and
fire detection and access control systems ensure
assets are safe and secure.
With safety being a key concern in mining,
particularly in South Africa where there is
a high concentration of deep level mining,
modern technology helps ensures that mines
The South African mining industry recently
marked 15 consecutive months of declines
in production, reflecting a broader decline in
mining activity that has resulted in a 30% loss
of employment since 2009.
While it is inevitable that South Africa is
making a transition from a resource-based
economy to a knowledge economy that’s driven
by digital technology, mining is an important
contributor to the economy and the country
remains a top global producer of a diverse
range of minerals.
However, declining ore grades are putting
pressure on every aspect of mining operations,
resulting in an urgent need for owners,
operators and management teams to closely
manage capital and improve cost per ton.
With energy costs consuming up to 15% of
a mine’s operating budget, operators need to
find ways of managing power more efficiently.
Despite the demand for uninterrupted uptime,
managers are forced to manage and upgrade
plants that need more reliable products, people
and processes than ever before.
In order to extend the life of mines, preserve
profit margins and slow job attrition, managers
can employ a variety of modern power
management solutions to deliver holistic power,
fuel and productivity efficiency.
can protect their employees and give operators
safe, reliable control in harsh environments and
changing conditions.
Also, automated machinery is more fuel
efficient, reducing emissions across any fleet
and minimising environmental impact.
An integrated power management system
helps to reduce the environmental footprint
using components that better manage fluid
transfer, wastewater reuse and water filtration
and deliver energy efficiency.
This serves to reduce energy consumed
(and produced) per ton, which offers direct
environmental benefits in a world where
carbon reports and impact statements drive
build and operate decisions.
Eaton helps customers to be more energy-
efficient through a portfolio of solutions
dedicated to enabling sustainable businesses
and extend the lifecycle of long-term
businesses such as mines.
In a declining mining sector, every bit of
saving counts towards extending the lifespan
of mines and stems the tide of job losses.
With the various challenges to South Africa’s
electricity grid, better power management will
also contribute to reducing power wastage
more safely and with a much lower impact on
the environment.
3D scanning improves accuracy
Using three-dimensional (3D) scanning
technology during on-site assessments has
enhanced the levels of accuracy and as a
result minimised rework costs in design and
manufacturing, and significantly reduced
downtime during installation. This is
according to Mark Baller, managing director
at Weba Chute Systems and Solutions, a
local manufacturer of custom transfer points
and chute systems.
“Implementing 3D scanning technology
to our capabilities two years ago enabled
our on-site technical teams to obtain
accurate measurements from a safe distance
and allows us to inspect and survey large
infrastructure in detail,” says Baller.
“The technology allows us to consider
all elements in existing infrastructure and
this plays an important role when replacing
transfer points or chutes as we are able to
create an accurate preliminary design and
costing in the early feasibility stages of a
project,” he adds.
allows us to consider
all elements in existing
infrastructure.
[36] MINING MIRROR JULY 2019
The technology
Weba Chute Systems leverages technology to ensure quality results for customers.
www.miningmirror.co.za