Event Details
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The six SAMERDI research programmes funded and led by the Mandela Mining Precinct are focused on ensuring the sustainability of hard rock mining into the future, through research, development and technology innovation. MEMSA members are privileged to receive an annual update on these programmes, including previews of opportunities for collaboration by local firms - directly from the Programme Managers.
The agenda on the 13th includes time for Q&A, allowing for in-depth understanding, and feedback from industry.
Key Agenda Items:
- Introduction to the Mandela Mining Precinct, its Management and Strategic Focus
- Overview of the six SAMERDI Research Programmes
- Brief presentation on the research focus of each programme 2024-5, and opportunities for member participation
- Q&A for each programme
The SAMERDI Programmes are:
Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) "GLASS ROCK – SEEING INTO THE ROCK"
Programme Manager: Michelle Pienaar
The Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) programme is aimed at providing mine planners, rock engineers, geologists and other decision-makers with information and knowledge that will contribute to optimal extraction and zero harm objectives.
Longevity of Current Mines (LoCM) - "MORE FROM THE SAME, WITH THE SAME"
Programme Manager: Martin Pretorius (Note that while Martin is not available, his programmes will be presented by colleagues working closely with him.)
The Longevity of Current Mines programme is aimed at improving mining practices and procedures, particularly for established mines that are already constrained by their infrastructure. The aim is to prolong the sustainability of the mines, thereby maintaining current jobs.
The objectives of the programme are to:
- Improve occupational health and safety performance;
- Increase the efficiency of extraction; and
- Reduce costs.
The objectives will be achieved through the use of more efficient systems of the mining cycle.
Mechanised Mining Systems (MMS) - "MINING SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY, WITH ZERO EXPOSURE"
Programme Manager: Martin Pretorius
The Mechanised Minign Systems programme is targeted at providing sustainable mechanised solutions to the gold and platinum mining industries by introducing disruptive technologies to facilitate zero harm and achieve financially sound underground mining operations with consistent production rates at optimal cost.
In cases where original equipment manufacturers are unable to provide a commercial solution, the design and production of such equipment will be conducted locally.
An upcoming focus of the programme is to develop Mining Technology Readiness Levels, and verification methods, in order to facilitate technology development partnerships.
Real-time Information Management Systems (RTIMS) - "THE RIGHT INFORMATION TO THE RIGHT PERSON ALL THE TIME"
Programme Manager: Jean-Jacques Verhaeghe
The Real-Time Information Management Systems programme aims to improve data sourcing, transmission, storage, dissemination, and information management tools, practices, and procedures for mines.
Successful Application Of Technologies Centred Around People (SATCAP) - "PEOPLE-CENTRED TECHNOLOGY AND PROCESSES"
Programme Manager: Dr Shiren Ramparsad
The SAMERDI Successful Application of Technologies Centred Around People (SATCAP) programme aims to understand how both specific and general challenges relating to people in the mining modernisation process can be understood from all stakeholders' perspectives.
Test Mine
Programme Manager: Jurgens Visser
In February 2022, the Mandela Mining Precinct signed a memorandum of understanding with Royal Bafokeng Maseve's Mine for the establishment of a test mine. The test mine situated in Rustenburg, North West is being developed as an industry site for research, development, and innovation as well as technology demonstration and testing.