Modern Mining September 2022

MINE SAFETY

 Mining optimisation – takes into account simula tion models that evaluate equipment performance capability with actual result, which ultimately deliver improved blasting frequency.  Equipment monitoring, maintenance diagnostics and replacement strategy, autonomous mining systems, and mechanical rock-breaking systems. Isidingo Rock Drill challenge In 2018, the MMP rolled out the Isidingo rock drill challenge, which looked to replace the outdated traditional drill technology employed in the South African gold and PGM mines. Existing drilling equip ment is bulky, heavy and delivers low production efficiencies resulting in blasting every third day. “The aim of the Isidingo drill initiative was to develop a drill to improve efficiency and safety and present an alternative power source from pneumatic drilling while concurrently creating new opportuni ties for local original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to operate within the mine value-chain,” Pretorius explains. The challenge comprised three phases, namely:  Phase I: Concept designs and development.  Phase II: Proof-of concept from surface testing of prototype performance.  Phase III: Underground testing performance and further product development and improvement. “The Isidingo drill challenge, Pretorius says, “has proved to be extremely successful with numerous equipment suppliers taking up the opportunity. In the end, three contestants were selected, of which two companies – Novatek and HPE – subsequently developed prototypes. The hand-held prototypes, developed last year, have been tested and trialled at underground operations. The performance results met the industry criteria and, to date, there has been good uptake of the drills by the mining industry.” HPE’s advanced prototype drill is being commer cialised and has received strong industry interest. Further to this, given that underground mining is associated with increased levels of seismic events, there are a variety of tracking products being developed. “South African gold miner Harmony Gold has been collaborating with product developers to develop its own environment, equipment and people monitoring system. Real time monitoring software has been integrated into cap lamps to track the location of employees – this is especially important for pin-pointing the location of miners during occur rences of seismic events,” explains Pretorius. The MMP’s strategy for ESG is focused around identifying alternative energy solutions to power underground plant and equipment. The drills proto types from the Isidingo challenge, for instance, are powered by hydropower. Another initiative being advanced is the remote scraper cleaning with proximity detection initiative

Industry bodies in partnership with mining houses and equipment manufacturers are progressing safety interventions.

practices, leading to a 10 – 20% improvement in margin, and to reduce safety risk at the work face. “Production improvement is achieved by devel oping new technological business improvement solutions for remotely operated equipment, and production optimisation within the focused areas for cleaning, support, drilling and blasting practices. The MMS Programme targets the development of auto mated mining systems that will allow for drilling and blasting / mechanical rock-breaking in gold and PGM narrow reef hard rock mines.” LoCM and mechanised mining systems initiatives include:  Isidingo drill challenge.  Remote scraper winches with proximity detection.  Remote charging units.  Focus on f irst l ine supervisor compl iance – e-logbook. Mechanised mining systems (MMS) focus on mechanised mining optimisation:  Technical design – related to rock engineering, ventilation engineering, infrastructure, equipment and energy utilisation.

Underground mining is a high-risk environment.

30  MODERN MINING  September 2022