Modern Mining March 2015

SURFACE MINING CONTRACTING

Mining a distinct advantage with this approach. “We have a cross-functional platform in terms of underground mining, civils, infrastructure and engineering. We are part of a diversified group and have a significant knowledge base to draw upon,” says Buitendach. “We are able to offer the appropriate cli- ent and project the option of transitioning from an opencast operation to underground mining. This is particularly suited to the plati- num sector, where operations commence with opencast mining and progress to underground decline development. We can offer a combined solution. On crushing solutions, Buitendach says: “It is not just the crushing operation itself, but the associated equipment as well. Concor Opencast Mining has access to some of the larg- est mobile crushing trains in the country, which gives it the capability to carry out significant crushing projects and crush to the required specification.” Another strong market differentiator for Concor Opencast Mining is the considerable experience it has accumulated on dipping or inclined orebodies, especially on the platinum belt. “The knowledge we have gained on utilis- ing mobile plant in this sector stands us in good stead when working on traditional orebodies. If we are able to operate successfully in the most difficult inclined conditions, then it becomes so much easier on the level areas.” Buitendach explains that while Concor Opencast Mining positions itself to be able to deliver medium- to large-sized projects, if a particular client has a requirement for a larger

project, its partnership with Downer Mining of Australia gives it the necessary capability in this regard. The combined effort of Downer Mining and Concor Opencast Mining will ensure that any joint operation “has sufficient resourcing, infrastructure and systems to enable the deliv- ery of a Tier 1 project.” Downer Mining has extensive experience in running ultra-class mining equipment, com- prising some of the largest units in the world, such as 800-t class excavators and 300-t class dump trucks. “In principle, what this agree- ment means is that when there are projects

Concor Opencast Mining has extensive experience in platinummining. Seen here are operations at Lonmin.

Machines from Concor Opencast Mining working at the Beeshoek iron ore mine in the Northern Cape.

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March 2015  MODERN MINING  43