Modern Mining August 2024

Joy 12HM37 Continuous Miner.

Sewerage pollution at the Blaauwbank River over Milbank Bridge.

logistical challenges related to rail allocations on the Transnet line, remain a concern for miners. “Although coal is abundant and a cheap source of fuel for power stations, the environmental impact of burning coal has become a key factor influencing the reduced appetite for fossil fuels by many countries. Furthermore, we have noted that several customers, both locally and internationally, have come under pressure from environmental groups. The good news, though, is that customers are increasingly investing in clean coal technology – a trend we expect to see grow in the medium to long-term.” Given that some miners have been unable to secure rail freight allocation on the Transnet line, product earmarked for the export market is being stockpiled, with the knock-on effect being that equipment suppliers to the coal industry have been unable to grow their businesses, a key driver underpinning Komatsu’s diversification strategy. Gaylard explains that the slow-down in production from South African coal mines translates to low demand for its machines, a reduced demand for equipment rebuilds and constrained demand for service and parts – all of which have stymied business growth for the equipment manufacturer. “On the bright side, we are seeing an improvement in terms of increased rail allocation by the freight rail operator, Transnet. However, from a business point of view, we understand that it is more important than ever for us to improve our levels of efficiency and ensure that there is as little wastage as possible in our processes, both in terms of manufacturing as related to equipment rebuilds and our parts supply processes. As customers

are extremely cost-conscious, we do not want to pass on unwarranted cost increases to them and are working together to implement processes, such as our smart service programme, to increase operational efficiencies and improve their production capabilities.”

AUGUST 2024 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  61