South Africa’s mining-equipment innovators are delivering practical, safety-focused and energy-efficient solutions across the domestic mining sector, reports equipment manufacturer cluster Mining Equipment Manufacturers of South Africa (Memsa) marketing and communications officer Sue Breckenridge.

She indicates that these technologies include, but are not limited to, drilling, materials handling, roof support products, real-time monitoring and workshop management processes being used across various South African mining operations.

“These technologies tell a cohesive story of safer, greener and more productive underground mining,” affirms Breckenridge.

In terms of drilling and face preparation technologies, specialised underground mining equipment manufacturer Nkangala Mining’s intelligent face-drill offers a patented alignment and automated drilling capability, which keeps holes parallel to the face for consistent fragmentation, thereby enabling easier follow up drilling and predictable performance, and even in instances of using less-skilled operators.

In addition, carbide cutting and drill tool solutions company DaltronX has developed patented robust hexagonal drill steels and improved ferrules which reduce slippage, coolant leaks, failures, downtime and operational costs for clients.

Also, Breckenridge points out that mining equipment manufacturer Buraaq Mining Service’s low-profile drill rig is one of many new technologies the company has developed and proven in South African mines over the past few years.

Importantly, she says the Buraaq Mining Services low- profile drill rig’s ISO-compliant canopy, programmable logic controller controls, Level-9 proximity detection systems (PDS), automatic fire suppression system, and digital pre-start and operator verification systems ensure safer, lowheadroom drilling in underground operations.

Breckenridge adds that South Africa-developed roof structure support and bolting technological developments include Buraaq Mining Services’ SD212i mechanised roof bolter, which is a remote drilling and bolting system for safe operation in low- profile stopes. 

Further of note, Breckenridge highlights, is hydropowered mining products and services company Hydro Power Equipment’s Isidingo drill and drill guide system, which provides operators with the ability to drill faster and with higher accuracy. This drill also serves to reduce operator exposure and consequent fatigue.

The drill is also noise compliant with the 2034 guidelines of 104 dB, while the drill and guide are lighter than traditional handheld pneumatic rock drills, enabling broader workforce participation.

Loading the Tech

Further underground loading, haulage and electrification developed-in-South-Africa technologies include specialised mining equipment manufacturer Rham Equipment’s battery-electric load, haul and dump (LHD) trucks, dump trucks and Toyota Land Cruiser electric drivetrain conversions.

Battery electric vehicles emit zero diesel particulate matter emissions, boast between 50% and 60% better energy efficiency, while their hydrostatic traction control and 100% ground engagement result in a 40% to 60% measured improved tyre life.

“These vehicles are designed with ergonomic cabins and a Level-9 PDS which promotes improved operator health, ventilation savings and increased productivity,” says Breckenridge.

The Nkangala LHD is a locally produced materials handling solution, with improved power drivetrains which eliminate up to 34% power loss experienced in conventional drivetrains. This offers high safety and mechanised productivity, built specifically for South African conditions.

Additionally, the Nkangala Intelligent Roof Bolter is another addition to its ever-increasing portfolio, offering precision control and consistent bolt installation to reduce exposure to unsupported ground.

Breckenridge explains that HydroPower Systems’ HV212 energy-on-demand (EOD) innovation is a hydropowered drilling system that delivers substantial resource savings. Powered by EOD technology, the system supplies electricity and water strictly on demand.

It achieves electricity savings of less than 2 kWh a tonne of ore mined and water savings of less than 0.3 tonnes of water a broken tonne.

In addition, the system features Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled condition monitoring, real-time mined-volume predictions and remote fault location.