SHAFT SINKING
associated with ore hoisting over load and haul operations , it said : “ The tradeoff between ramp and shaft is complex and brings in multiple factors surrounding depth , ventilation , production capacity , etc . Each have their own benefits and can be tailored towards a project .”
The company , which is currently engaged in both shaft sinking and decline development work in North America , added that the current sector trends – advancing battery-electric vehicle technology developments and an increasing need to secure captive green energy supply at mine sites – were not yet pointing to one method being preferred over the other .
“ We see that there are significant tradeoffs and technological advancements considered as part of the decisions , which DMC Mining is a part of as the contractor ,” it said .
DMC Mining is working with KGHM International on the Victoria Advanced Exploration shaft , carrying out the engineering , design , procurement , fabrication , completion and commissioning of the works associated with the execution of the Advanced Exploration Phase of the Victoria project , in Ontario , Canada .
This will involve the sinking of a 6.7-m diameter fully-lined exploration shaft going down to a final depth of 1,860 m .
“ We are completing a bulk sample and drilling program on a number of levels as part of the scope ,” Michal Jezioro , President and CEO , said . “ We will have completed all the surface infrastructure related to this phase by the end of the year .” This includes a water storage pond , the sinking infrastructure and a site-wide dewatering / seepage collection system .
“ We are in a cyclical phase of sinking and cutting the stations ( with an electrical and pump heading ),” Jezioro said . “ There are stations every 300 m and we will be past our shaft halfway mark by the start of 2025 .”
The phased construction approach DMC Mining is using at Victoria – enabling it to execute shaft activities at the same time as preparing for the subsequent phases of exploration , ramp up and mine production – is an example of the company ’ s continuous improvement culture .
Jezioro explained : “ DMC Mining Services use the data metrics and lessons learned from all recent and historical projects to further develop the company ’ s efficiency and performance . The engineering team can witness the on-site changes and operational challenges that will enable DMC to improve future designs and meet specific requirements of clients .”
The dynamic nature of the sector and influx of innovative technology means contracting companies must adapt quickly to change and trial new technologies to ensure client needs are met , according to DMC .
“ This is combined with one of the largest challenges within the sector : the further training / development and retention of skilled workers ,” the company said . “ By upskilling and exposing new employees to these lessons learnt and future technology , DMC Mining Services is ensuring a competitive edge in the market .”
Here the company highlighted the PLC systems it is using at Victoria , which are fully designed by DMC and ensure the highest level of safety , while enabling efficient sinking .
DMC added : “ The introduction of systems to align with changing regulations and multiple stakeholders ( hoisting plant , sinking equipment , services , infrastructure , etc ) is something that is evolving , as seen in the sector with changes in technology and methodologies .”
The right technology for the right job
Murray & Roberts Cementation also leverages a continuous improvement process in its own shaft sinking work , applying advanced technologies to overcome challenging conditions while maintaining a strong reputation for safety and environmental care .
Graham Chamberlain , New Business Director at Murray & Roberts Cementation , says the ability to leverage innovation in the shaft sinking business requires companies to be “ inventive and judicious ” in their choice of technology for each specific application . “ Often the technology we employ is off-the-shelf and well-proven , but we can use it to great effect in achieving optimal project results for our clients ,” he says .
At Ivanhoe Mines ' Platreef project in South Africa , the company used directional drilling
technology to guide raiseboring equipment , successfully completing a 5.1-m diameter
ventilation shaft to a depth of 950 m . This precise intersection with an existing underground excavation showcased Murray & Roberts
Murray & Roberts Cementation is sinking a 5.1-m diameter ventilation shaft at the Ivanhoe Mines Platreef project , in South Africa , to meet horizontal development at 950 m below surface
Cementation ’ s expertise in deploying the right technology for the job , according to Chamberlain .
In a potential project the company is working on , Murray & Roberts Cementation plans to tackle sinking multiple shafts through waterbearing ground to depths exceeding 280 m . Traditional techniques like cementation injection or chemical grouting were avoided due to groundwater contamination risks . Instead , the company opted for a modern caisson method using a roadheader guided downwards , sinking under its own weight and preventing water contamination with a concrete lining .
The company ’ s capability is built on decades of collaboration with clients and OEMs , Chamberlain says . This close partnership ensures continuous refinement of equipment designs , enhancing safety , automation and performance .
“ An important aspect of technological development in mining equipment is the feedback that we give to OEMs on how we think their designs can be improved ,” he added . This iterative process has led to advancements such as third-generation shaft drill rigs that offer improved safety and efficiency .
The Murray & Roberts Training Academy also aides in developing the skills required for modern shaft sinking operations . Training includes virtual reality tools and simulation equipment , preparing learners for real working conditions . The digital age has also brought significant advancements in operating and management control systems , enabling datadriven insights for efficient maintenance and safety practices , it says .
Murray & Roberts Cementation ’ s commitment to safety is evident in its nearly nine-year record
International Mining | SEPTEMBER 2024