Modern Quarrying Q3 2018

EMBRACING CHANGE

B efore I air my views on matters concerning the industry, please allow me to take this opportunity to salute my predecessor, Dale Kelly, for her dedication and passion for the quarrying industry over the years. The fact that she founded both existing quarrying titles in Africa is a true indicator of her love for this industry. I have watched closely, with great interest, the discussions she has had in her titles over the years. You will all agree with me that she has been at the centre of revolutionising an industry that is otherwise notorious

now, is how the industry can leverage the role of technology in enabling new capabilities. The calls for innovation in the industry are deafening, and technology is slowly, but surely making its way into quarry sites. While some are still stuck in their old ways, it’s encouraging to see that some are already moving ahead, finding newer solutions to improve their processes and boost their bottom lines. A case in point is my recent visit to an operation in KwaZulu- Natal, South Africa, where a quarry manager’s emphasis on new technologies is at the heart of improved efficiency and productivity. Realising the fast pace at which technological innovation is taking place, he knew it was time to devote attention to new equipment. He hired a consultant to help re-evaluate the plant, who suggested that the operation could have one new, fully-automated hydraulic crusher doing the same job of two old machines on site. Within the first month of installation, there was a 25% production increase! For some, it is difficult to leave behind a suite of what they deem tried-and-tested processes. The adoption of new technology, just like the implementation of any other new process, has to improve the bottom line or meet a mandated requirement. For this KwaZulu-Natal quarry, new production figures are testimony to the beneficial role technology can play in running a profitable and sustainable business. Technology is opportunity – let’s embrace it.

for sticking to its old ways. Quarrying has long been an industry with great traditions where change, at times is gradual. The African building materials industry is as vital to today’s economy as ever before, yet it is at a crossroad, currently combating multiple adverse industry trends such as illegal mining, the regulatory burden and shrinking margins, to mention a few. My view is that quarry owners have critical choices to make about every aspect of their businesses – they can either innovate or stagnate. The most fundamental change, right

COMMENT

Munesu Shoko – Editor quarrying@crown.co.za

@MunesuShoko

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MODERN QUARRYING QUARTER 3 - 2018