Abstract

FOURIE, F.; VALICEK, P.; KRAFFT, G.  and  SEVENOAKS, J.. Narrow-reef mechanized mining layout at Anglo American Platinum. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2017, vol.117, n.3, pp.263-274. ISSN 2411-9717.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2017/v117n3a8.

Anglo American Platinum (AAP) is constantly striving towards safe, sustainable, productive, and cost-effective operations. There are many different initiatives, one of which is mechanization, and in particular, mining with extra-low profile (XLP) or ultra-low profile (ULP) equipment in pre-developed stoping areas. This paper considers the best practices that have already been implemented within AAP's mechanized mining operations and details new-generation XLP and ULP equipment that is anticipated to be able to achieve monthly production rates in excess of 4000 m², inclusive of the panel and advanced strike drive areas. The new-generation XLP equipment has completed its production trial and the ULP equipment is entering its proof-of-concept phase. This paper will discuss the results obtained during the XLP production trial as well as the progress that has been made on the ULP equipment. Emphasis is placed on the higher production levels and greater efficiencies that can be achieved using this equipment. The paper will highlight the importance of the mining cycle as well as the availability of the equipment. It will also examine the new skills sets that will be required in the industry.

Keywords : mechanization; narrow-reef layout; extra-low profile; ultra-low profile; mining cycle.

        · text in English     · English ( pdf )