Modern Mining December 2020

DRILL RIGS

Key Takeaways  Rosond was awarded a R2-billion multi-year contract in 2019 to develop and implement its next-generation drill rigs  The drilling contract is one of the largest in Africa, if not in the southern hemisphere  The last two rigs arrived on site recently, likely making Rosond the only company in the world with so many drill rigs equipped with telemetry in use by a single client  Rosond has a decades-long relationship with Anglo American and was able to meet its needs in light of the drive in the min- ing industry towards improved technology, safety and gender equality Rosond’s end-goal is a fully autonomous drill rig. it one of the largest drilling contracts in Africa, if not in the southern hemisphere. “The telemetry system will also help further R&D into tool optimisa- tion that could outperform the market standard.” Women in mining A far cry from the ‘hard and dangerous work’ normally associated with core drilling, Rosond’s next-generation exploration rigs are controlled remotely, from an air-conditioned control room complete with its own restroom facilities. Rosond recruited six women from the local community at Kumba and provided them with intensive training as dill rig operators. “These ladies are dynamic and excited over their new skills. This is true community development and empowerment,” says Ribeiro. 

December 2020  MODERN MINING  23