Modern Mining November 2017

PRODUCT News

Maptek optimises grade control

Optimisation can be guided by eco- nomic value or by cut-offs to minimise misclassification. Depletion from ore loss and dilution is minimised, while satisfy- ing mining parameters. The new process is also repeatable and auditable which imparts confidence in the decision-making process. Mineable polygons are automatically generated from block models, preserv- ing the original source of resource data to delineate different regions. These polygons are controlled to limit vertices and sharp angles, which creates proper operational polygons that can be staked in the field and mined when required. Any changes to the polygons are reflected quickly in reporting of tonnage, grade and value. Venter says that the new module is fast engendering interest with open-pit opera- tors. “‘Sites are really impressed by how much time they will save with this tool, and more than that, they can see straight away the improvement it will make to their decision-making process,” he states. “This tool streamlines classification activities, removing the ambiguities that naturally exist when polygons are hand-drawn, and reporting is so much more streamlined.” Nick Venter, Maptek, tel (+27 11) 750-9660

Maptek has introduced a new approach to classifying material for open-pit min- ing, eliminating the manual generation of polygons and helping prevent costly mis- classification errors. Open-pit mines face daily the often- challenging task of deciding where to send newly mined material. The current process at most African mines involves drawing mining polygons by hand, with only a cur- sory focus on maximising value. Africa is home to some of the largest open-pit mines in theworld, and in this fast- paced operating environment sub-optimal decisions have an immediate, irreversible impact on the mine’s bottom line. “Many operations would be aware that manual processes are not repeatable. In the instance of grade polygons, different shift engineers classify material differ- ently according to their experience and interpretation. A lot of effort goes into producing what is essentially a single result,” comments Maptek’s GM for South Africa, Nick Venter. “Now with Grade Control Optimiser, there is a way to generate thousands of solutions and evaluate them to guide eco- nomic decisions. This is faster and more accurate than could be done by hand.”

HOISTING SOLUTIONS Winder Controls is a leader in the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic design, manufacture and installa- tion of mine winders and related equipment. Our designs comply with the latest international safety and reliability standards including SIL assessments where applicable. Our services include relocations, refur- bishment and upgrades, as well as full aftersales and maintenance support. In addition we offer a range of special products including steel wire rope handling equipment, Three Chamber Energy recovery systems and Nuclear Waste Disposal Technology.

Tel: +27 (0)11 383 9300 www.winder.co.za

Mineable polygons are automatically generated from block models.

Hyundai wheel loader copes with tough conditions A Hyundai HL780-9S wheel loader, which is being used by Vanalls Plant Hire at a smelter in Witbank to break up and transport silica manganese, is coping efficiently in extremely harsh conditions. “Hyundai wheel loaders are known for impressive performance in tough applica- tions, but the durability of this machine is extraordinary,” notes Alex Ackron, MD of HPE Africa, distributors in Southern Africa for Hyundai Construction Equipment. “Vanalls Plant Hire, with responsibility for integrated materials handling of all commodities at the smelter, invested in this front-end loader at the end of 2016. A year later, with over 6 000 hours on the clock, this robust machine continues to offer optimum productivity, using on average only 22 litres of fuel per hour. “This wheel loader is used to break layered cast silica manganese from the prepared beds into smaller pieces and transport this high temperature mate- rial to a cooling pad. For enhanced performance, improved traction and tyre protection, the HL780-9S has been fitted with durable tyre chains.” HPE Africa, website: www.hpeafrica.co.za

Fax: +27 (0)11 383 9305 email: winder@winder.co.za

November 2017  MODERN MINING  51