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http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/communications/itc-global/press6.html Wed, 07 May 2008 09:40:52 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/communications/itc-global/press6.html ITC Global to Present at Risk & Corporate Social Responsibility Seminar in Toronto StPetersburg, Florida (May 7, 2008); ITC Global, a leader in the provision of remote corporate network communication solutions, will be presenting at a one day seminar on Risk Mitigation & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Africa: Striking a Balance on June 2, 2008 in Toronto, presented by the Canada-South Africa Chamber of Business. The seminar will explain in detail how to mitigate the risk of operating in Africa and how the implementation of effective CSR programs will assist in reducing risk profiles. The program features expert speakers, panel discussions, questions and answers, case studies by successful Canadian companies in Africa and excellent networking opportunities. The seminar is organized by the Canada-South Africa Chamber of Business. Partners include the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade. The event is sponsored by MineAfrica. Seminar presenters and topics include: Seminar Chairperson, Tyson Johnson, Senior Manager, Physical Security, TD Bank Financial Group and Director, Canada-South Africa Chamber of Business Keynote Address by Louise Leger, Director-General, Trade Commissioner Service - Operations, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Traditional Security Approaches to High Risk Environments, William Daly, Senior Vice President, Control Risks Group Successfully Mitigating Risk through CSR, Alan Bell, President, Globe Risk International Security Services Banro Corporation: A Canadian CSR Success Story in the DRC, Martin Jones, Vice President, Corporate Development, Banro Corporation Risk Transfer Through Insurance, Brian Cameron, Principal, Integro Insurance Brokers and Sophie Strezos-Egnatus, Vice President, W.J. Sutton & Co. Ltd. Risk Mitigation Through Legal Structures, Darryl Levitt, Counsel, Macleod Dixon LLP Mitigating Risk by Reducing Your Carbon Footprint, Ron Dembo, Chief Executive Officer, Zerofootprint The Role of Satellite Communications in Managing Security Risk in Remote Area Mining Operations and a CSR Case Study in the DRC, Sarah Sadd, Director of Communications, ITC Global The South African Mining Charter: A Structural Approach to CSR, Eric Ratshikhopha, Executive Director: Corporate Development, Xstrata South Africa (Pty) Ltd. Case Study: A Sustainable CSR Program, Matt Fisher, Vice President, AnyWay Solutions The Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) CSR Framework for Exploration, Tony Andrews, Executive Director, Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/materials/ics/press1.html Thu, 01 May 2008 11:42:57 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/materials/ics/press1.html Innovative Conveying Systems International Secures Second Conveyor for Chemical Manufacturing Following the successful installation of the Innovative Conveying System (ICS) into Baileys Fertilisers manufacturing facility in Kwinana, Western Australia a second system has now been ordered. David Bonfield, Baileys Fertilisers General Manager, said: "The existing ICS conveyor that was installed in August 2007 has been operating exceptionally well and has improved our production output significantly by eliminating product spillage and improving general operation." Mr Bonfield went on to say: "The improvements, reliability and after-sales service provided by ICSI with the first system we had installed were a major factor in choosing the ICS over other conveyor options for our new system." Innovative Conveying Systems International operates a policy of utilising data generated from actual field systems to aid in the continual improvement of the design and manufacture of future products. The second Baileys conveyor system will benefit from such improvements. The second ICS will be installed to convey mulch, potting mix and soil conditioner at a rate of 10Tph from a feeder located outside of the manufacturing facility, approximately 30m to the bagging machine located inside the manufacturing facility. The ICS will follow a straight conveying path with an incline of 450 before entering the manufacturing facility and being suspended from the roof. The material will then discharge into the hopper for bagging. Innovative Conveying Systems International is providing a full turnkey solution, including a 12m³ hopper with feeder and full control integration with the bagging machine. Additional covers will be incorporated for this installation to cover the section of the ICS that is located outside. The ICS will run below an existing conveyor which conveys material to another hopper. The existing non-ICS conveyor is prone to spillage, which would fall directly onto the conveying path of the ICS affecting its safe and correct operation, creating the need for a cover. In normal operating conditions the ICS would not require a cover to be installed. Michael Pietsch, Innovative Conveying Systems International Managing Director, said: "We are excited at the potential conveying solutions that the ICS offers to the chemical manufacturing industry, particularly as the first installation at Bailey's has already proved itself. The ICS is not restricted to chemical manufacturing applications, but can also provide a viable conveying solution in the mining, agriculture, construction, ports, power generation and waste-management industries for rates of up to 2,000 TPH. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/project/dovebid/press3.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:22:31 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/project/dovebid/press3.html DoveBid Commissioned to Sell De Beers Oaks Mine Operational Assets DoveBid is selling the De Beers Oaks Mine's complete mining assets including the currently fully operational plant and support structures. The sale will take place end May 2008 (28th to 30th May). The Oaks Mine was established in 1998 and is located in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Production will come to a halt end July 2008, and potential buyers will be able to see the operation in production. There are more than 400 asset groupings making up the operation, and these can be viewed in detail on the DoveBid electronic catalogue. In addition, a process flow is available online to describe production flows and throughputs. The sale is open to all buyers internationally and includes: Primary Jaw Crusher Undermounted horizontal and inclined outfeeding belt conveyor, approx. 600mm width, and 76m length with walkway, approx. 26m length. Rotary Scrubber Installation Comprising Lined Drum, approx. 1.8m diameter x4.3m length, nd Mounted Screen Section, approx.1.8m diameter x1.8m length, 12 Tyre Roller Station, RR/Hytec, Twin Hydraulic Drive with cooling system and Controls and Supporting Equipment. Recovery Plant Heavy mild steel fabricated plant supporting structure, approx. 6m x 8.5m dimensions arranged on Ground and 6 Upper Levels, approx. 25m height to include cladding to the structure. Recovery Plant Debtech, Model CDX1132C (LARA) Serial No: XM2001 01 003, Unit Process No: 234, X-Ray Diamond Sorter Machine. Secondary Crusher Symons, Size: 3FTSTD, Serial No: SA377, No: RR5199, Cone Crusher No:1 with 75kW A/C drive unit and lubrication system. Coarse DMS Vibramech, Model SCR-S, 1500 X 3600, Number: 2297B, Floats Screen, approx. 1.5m x 3.6m dimensions with twin vibrator units Following plant closure end July, a flush of the systems will take place between 1st and 9th August 2008, whereafter dismantling can start. Companies interested in participating in the purchase of the assets can register online or contact the following DoveBid people. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/chemicals/cytec/press3.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:59:44 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/chemicals/cytec/press3.html Cytec to Adjust Pricing for Mineral Processing and Solvent Extraction Products Cytec Industries announced today the implementation of a global price adjustment of 7 to 15 percent on all mining products used in mineral processing and solvent extraction including AEROFROTH frothing agents, OREPREP frothing agents, AEROPHINE promoter, SUPERFLOC flocculants, AERODRI surfactant, AEROFLOAT flotation reagents, AERO promoter, ACORGA extraction reagents and CYANEX solvent extraction reagents products. This adjustment, effective June 1, 2008, is being implemented to offset the increased costs of raw materials, energy and transportation. CORPORATE PROFILE Cytec Industries is a global specialty chemicals and materials company focused on developing, manufacturing and selling value-added products. Our products serve a diverse range of end markets including aerospace, adhesives, automotive and industrial coatings, chemical intermediates, inks, mining and plastics. We use our technology and application development expertise to create chemical and material solutions that are formulated to perform specific and important functions in the finished products of our customers. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press4.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:30:04 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press4.html Protecta Introduces Their New Miners Belts PROTECTA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated in providing the best in fundamental fall protection have announced the recent launch of their NEW Miners Belts. PROTECTA miners belts are an essential tool for underground miners, allowing them to attach necessary and vital equipment to safely perform their work. The miners belts have been constructed to be both functional and adaptable whilst maintaining a high level of comfort and mobility. Designed specifically for the mining industry, the miners belts provide a simple and functional piece of equipment to add to their tool kit to keep them safe. The two models in the range (AB001AU and AB002AU) consist of a lightweight comfort waist belt for support; detachable PVC coated straps for the secure attachment of vital tools such as battery packs and self rescuers; and reflective tape for added visibility and safety underground. The AB002AU model also features integral braces to provide extra support, allowing the even distribution of the weight from the loaded belt over the shoulders, back, chest and hips. The miners belts are both versatile and practical and are also ideal for use in a variety of industries such as maintenance, oil production, line work, rigging and other applications requiring work positioning. They are best suited for activities where the user needs to be restrained from a leading edge, or where there is no possibility of a fall. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press3.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:27:32 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press3.html DBI-SALA Introduces Their New EZ-Line Retractable Horizontal Lifeline System DBI-SALA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, has announced the launch of their NEW EZ-Line Retractable Horizontal Lifeline System. This unique and first of its kind system eases the stress of installing, recoiling and removing temporary horizontal lifeline systems by incorporating a built-in retractor device. The entire 18m system is easily deployed and retracted from its compact hand-held housing. EZ-Line also reduces the burden on workers by weighing in 33 percent lighter than most horizontal lifeline systems. "This new retractable system will allow workers to more easily and safely retract and store the cable that makes up the horizontal lifeline system," said Rick Millar, Technical Manager for Capital Safety, Australia and New Zealand. "It will save workers time and energy that was previously spent coiling and uncoiling cable, as well as add safety features like a pretension indicator, impact indicator and shock absorption." The EZ-Line Retractable Horizontal Lifeline System is comprised of an 18m x 6.25mm cable lifeline; a cable retracting handle that tensions the line, retracts the cable back into the housing and acts as a pretension indicator; and a housing unit that stores the cable to prevent wear and tear from improper storage. The new system also provides shock absorption and is serviceable. The EZ-Line Retractable Horizontal Lifeline System is compatible with most horizontal lifeline stanchions on the market, and is compatible with any DBI-SALA and PROTECTA anchorage connector or stanchion. The temporary system was designed to comply with international safety standards, making the product suitable for installation in almost any country. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press5.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:14:48 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press5.html DBI-SALA Introduces the Harness Hydration System DBI-SALA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, has announced the launch of their NEW Hydration System for Full Body Harnesses. This compact system connects to any DBI-SALA harness and holds 1.5 litres of liquid for added worker safety and productivity. The DBI-SALA Hydration System is designed to effortlessly clip to the back of any harness, below the D-ring, to keep a fluid source close to the body without getting in the worker's way. A one-buckle strap slides beneath the dorsal webbing and clips together securely, while the press studs hold the pack in place. Adjusting the system is unnecessary as it positions itself to look and feel like part of the harness. "Everyone knows that it's important to stay hydrated, especially when working outside," says Angela Gill, Product Manager for Capital Safety in Australia and New Zealand. "Those working at heights, however, often don't have convenient access to a water source. The harness hydration system is an ideal solution that will maintain productivity and avoid the negative health effects of dehydration." The harness hydration system's zip-up nylon carrier and insulated drink tube cover ensure the liquid remains at the right temperature from the reservoir to the worker's mouth. The anti-microbial, taste-free tubing and reservoir keep liquid fresh at all times. The 97cm drink tube can emerge from dual hose ports for access on either shoulder, while the tube clip prevents entanglement and snaps free when snagged. This clip keeps the no-leak bite valve near the worker's mouth for hands-free access. A durable cover caps the mouth piece to keep out dirt and prevent accidental damage. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press7.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:09:17 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press7.html DBI-SALA Introduces Their New Rollgliss Rescue Kit DBI-SALA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, has announced the launch of their NEW Rescue Kit to their rescue product range. The new Rollgliss R250 Rescue Kit has been developed for the effective rescue of a worker left suspended at height after a fall. The system has been designed and engineered with the inexperienced user in mind, allowing them to perform an emergency rescue on co-workers without the use of complex knots or knives. The rescuer is not put at risk and is able to perform the rescue from a remote location without the need to descend down to the casualty, removing themselves from any danger. The self contained kit is lightweight and portable, and contains all the necessary components to perform an efficient and safe rescue when required, anywhere, anytime. "This is an ideal tool enabling the safe rescue of an injured and suspended worker after they have been involved in a fall, says Emmett McGregor," Training and Consulting Manager for Capital Safety in Australia and New Zealand. "Its larger hook design makes it easier to connect the rescue device to the suspended person, and with proper training and practice allows a successful rescue to be performed in less than ten minutes." The Rollgliss R250 rescue kit is a safe, reliable and practical packaged rescue solution for use in industrial rescue that was previously reserved for rescue professionals. It is a complete rescue system available in kits with rope lengths of 10, 20 or 30 metres. Its ease of use and cost effective price make the kit the ideal answer to your rescue plan requirements. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press6.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:01:52 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press6.html DBI-SALA Introduces i-Safe™ Intelligent Safety System DBI-SALA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, introduces the new i-Safe Intelligent Safety System. A revolutionary, first of its kind safety system, i-Safe delivers real-time solutions for inspection, inventory control and information management. i-Safe combines Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-equipped fall protection equipment with web-based information management to maximise the effectiveness and minimise the total cost of safety programs. Effective immediately, all DBI-SALA fall protection harnesses will become i-Safe enabled and i-Safe will be standard on most DBI-SALA equipment by the end of 2007. Additionally, a retrofit kit will be available to incorporate i-Safe technology on existing equipment, regardless of brand. i-Safe allows companies to track equipment assigned by worker or location, download or view equipment user instruction manuals, inspection criteria and safety regulations quickly and effortlessly. "i-Safe significantly simplifies the administration of safety programs," said Ian Heslop, Sales Director for Capital Safety in Australia and New Zealand. "i-Safe allows you to easily record and access information on inspections, inventory and related safety and equipment information; it was specifically developed to help manage the intricate safety challenges faced by safety managers on a daily basis." The system provides streamlined access to a variety of information that companies need for management of their safety programs. This creates a safer and more productive work environment with fewer delays because of missing, out-of-date, or improperly inspected equipment. The i-Safe RFID tags are read by portable electronic readers that scan and account for the equipment through unique serial numbers. Each tag's unique ID registers the product's model type and history. The tags have no battery to limit their life and are resistant to grease, dust and salt water to ensure efficient functionality. The recorded data is instantly available through a customised i-Safe web portal, which is set up and hosted by DBI-SALA professional safety and information management consultants. The website also provides access to related safety and equipment information, training records and product advisories. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press2.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:58:26 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press2.html DBI-SALA Introduces a Revolutionary New Self Retracting Lifeline for 100%Tie-Off Protection DBI-SALA, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, has announced the launch of their NEW 100% Tie-Off Talon self retracting lifeline - another industry first by DBI-SALA. This revolutionary fall protection device offers a unique solution for providing 100% fall protection to workers required to move about and re-position during work activities. Recognising that today's workers need mobility and continuous fall protection, DBI-SALA has developed a unique SRL that features two independent lines, allowing one line to be connected to an anchorage at all times. Used much like any other fall protection lanyard or SRL, this inertia activated self retracting device allows the tails to extend and retract as needed, while limiting the fall distances and reducing the maximum arresting forces. With the light weight housing mounted to the back of a full body harness, this SRL is convenient to use, and most importantly, keeps workers protected 100% of the time. Available with large scaffold hooks for easy attachment to a variety of anchorage points, this DBI-SALA Talon SRL is well suited for a diverse range of applications, including: scaffold work, tower climbing, inspection activities and general maintenance. The 100% Tie-Off Talon comes complete with a DBI-SALA Delta Comfort back pad and two lanyard stowage points for added comfort, ease of operation and safety. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press1.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:53:09 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/vehicle/capital-safety/press1.html DBI-Sala Introduces Their New Live Line Fall Protection Range DBI-Sala, the world's leading manufacturer solely dedicated to the fall protection market, has announced the launch of their NEW Live Line fall protection range. The Live Line range has been specifically designed to resist electrical conductivity and addresses the needs of utility workers who are faced with the dangerous task of working on both high and low voltage live lines from an EWP vehicle. The range consists of a Delta™ Live Line Harness, EZ Stop® Live Line Shock Absorbing Lanyards and the Live Line Kit. The kit offers both the harness and lanyard combination in a conveniently packaged compliant kit solution. "Many utility workers are in need of equipment that resists electrical conductivity when working from an EWP or other industries where high voltage electricity is a concern," says Rick Millar, Technical Manager for Capital Safety, Australia and New Zealand. "The Live Line range allows workers to meet compliance standards and ensures absolute safety and peace of mind in a hazardous work environment." The Delta Live Line full body harness is constructed with no metal hardware above the waist, keeping the upper body which is typically exposed to the live current free from electrical conductivity. The harness features a unique rear fall arrest rated webbing loop with integral dorsal extension and a Velcro chest strap to ensure all metal components are kept away from the upper body. Leather insulators provide added protection against static energy transfer from all lower body buckles and adjusters. The harness incorporates a frontal fall arrest connection point ensuring it meets the strict requirements of the new AS/NZS 1891.1:2007 standard. The EZ Stop Shock Absorbing Lanyard utilises Resist Technology - an extruded polyurethane coating for ultimate protection, durability and longevity. Specially treated ends prevent water penetration into the lanyard ensuring a high resistance to conductivity. The Resist Technology webbing makes it highly resistant to grease, oil and dirt, making it easy to maintain. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/screening/schenck/press9.html Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:05:40 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/screening/schenck/press9.html Schenck Process Group Honoured with the Oliver Wyman Best Growth Award for Mechanical Engineering Companies Schenck Process is the best example of the successes a good strategy process can deliver. In recognition of the successful definition and ongoing realisation of its growth strategy, the Schenck Process Group are delighted to announce that management consults Oliver Wyman and the Produktion business journal have conferred their 2007 Strategy Award for Mechanical Engineering Companies in the category of 'Best Growth Strategy' on the Schenck Process Group. Citing ability to achieve targeted financial results, in presenting the award Oliver Wyman acknowledges Schenck Process' transition from a component supplier to a leading provider of complete solutions. "The focus lies on the production of key components and on solutions with a clear differentiation and high customer benefit," says Thomas Kautzsch, Partner at Oliver Wyman in Munich. Additionally, selective acquisitions as well as the exemplary growth of its service business further convinced the awarding jury. The defined growth strategy, which Schenck Process has pursued since its 2005 MBO from Duuml;rr (owners of Carl Schenck AG) has greatly contributed to the award winning development of the company. Operating across the globe via a network of 25 legal entities, in order to achieve a focussed approach across various industries, the company has structured its business into five core International Business Segments (IBS) namely IBS Heavy, IBS Light, IBS Mining, IBS Power and IBS Transport Automation, each focusing on different user markets e.g. cement, steel, food, pharmaceuticals, coal, base metals, power and transport automation processes for road, rail and port. Serving all of these industries and many more via a customer-orientated business model, Schenck Process develops, manufactures and markets a full range of solutions, products and turnkey systems on the basis of combining process engineering expertise, reliable components and field-proven technology. Special praise was also given to the exemplary expansion of Schenck Process' services with respect to process optimisation for customers and carefully planned inorganic growth. Specific acquisitions e.g. the Stock, Redler and Fairfield companies and the 'in-motion-scale' business of Pfister Waagen Bilanciai, have increased the operating result at Schenck Process by 340% since 2003 and resulted in a 120% increase in the workforce; in Fiscal Year 2007, Schenck Process employed approximately 2,000 staff worldwide. Stewart D Murdoch, Schenck Process' Director of Business Development & Marketing comments, "we strongly believe in having a customer-orientated business model and we place this at the centre of all of our activities. Building on this model, the objective of our strategy is to have a balanced and profitable growth based on clearly defined organic and inorganic actions with the overarching objectives being the leverage of our global footprint to maximise our pre and after sales support and further expansion of our market position internationally." With more than 2,900 professionals in over 40 cities around the globe, Oliver Wyman is one of the leading management consulting firms and is part of the Marsh & McLennan Companies. The "Strategy Award for Mechanical Engineering Companies" was started in 2005 with the aim of encouraging development of strategic goals in the industry and publicly recognising their implementation. More than 100 German, Austrian and Swiss mechanical engineering companies participated in the contest that was conducted in co-operation with the business journal Produktion and under the patronage of the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/wheels/duratread/press2.html Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:54:53 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/wheels/duratread/press2.html Duratread Mining Tires in Stock in Iquique, Chile Duratread announces the opening of a bonded storage facility in Iquique, Chile that will provide a direct and immediate supply of Duratread Mining Tires to mines, quarries and construction sites in Chile, Peru and Bolivia. Duratread Mining tires, launched in 2006 are produced in E3/E4 and L3/L4/L5 sizes and have grown in popularity with the major mining companies throughout the region due to good durability and performance statistics, coupled with expert local support. With lead times for Mining Tires reaching many months, stock available in the region will facilitate quicker and easier supply and lessen downtime for mining vehicles. Duratread explained: "Demand from our regional customers has grown due to the local support that we have demonstrably given. For that reason it was a logical step to provide some stocking facility in the region to look after the increasing demand from our loyal customers to give that additional support." Duratread Mining tires will be available from Iquique mid May in two sizes for Wheeled Loaders:- 35/65-33 and 45/65-45 L5 and from June 1st 33.00-51 and 40.00-57 E4 for Mining dump trucks. Duratread manufacturers a range of mining tires from 33in to 63in. NeumàTicos Para Minería Duratread Disponibles en Iquique, Chile Duratread anuncia la inauguracion de una nueva instalaciòn de almacenaje en Iquique, Chile que proveerà un suministro directo e inmediato de los neumàticos para minería Duratread a las diferentes minas, canteras y sitios de construcciòn en Chile, Peru y Bolivia. Los neumàticos para minerìa Duratread, lanzados en el año 2006 son producidos en los tamaños E3/E4 y L3/L4/L5 y han ido creciendo en popularidad con las empresas de mayor actividad minera a traves de toda la region gracias a una gran durabilidad y buenas estadisticas de funcionamiento, junto con el soporte de expertos locales. Con los tiempos de entrega normal de neumaticos de mineria llegando a ser varios meses, tener mercancia disponible en la region facilitarà el suministro de estas y sera màs ràpido y fàcil suplir y asi rebajar el tiempo de inactividad en los vehículos de minería. Duratread dice: "La demanda de nuestros clientes regionales ha crecido gracias al apoyo local que les hemos demostrado. Por esa razon fue lógico tomar una decisión para proveer alguna facilidad de almacenaje en la region para atender la creciente demanda de nuestros fieles clientes y para darles ese apoyo adicional. Los neumaticos para mineria Duratread estaran disponibles en Iquique desde mediados de Mayo en dos tamaños para los Cargadores con ruedas: 35/65-33 y 45/65-45 L5 y desde el 1ero de Junio 33.00-51 y 40.00-57 E4 para Volquetes. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/cutting/wirth1/press6.html Wed, 23 Apr 2008 11:49:38 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/cutting/wirth1/press6.html Roadheaders Boosting India's Growth in Infrastructure and Energy India's economy is said to be one of the fastest growing economies in the world. This is reflected in the need for infrastructure and energy, to keep up with the economical growth. Infrastructure is required to open up underdeveloped areas of the country and to improve the traffic situation in and between India's major cities. And in the meantime, the increased industrial activity and growing wealth demands more and more energy to support these activities. Although India holds significant coal reserves, it also has an almost unlimited amount of natural energy: hydropower. Due to its geological location, as the Indian subcontinent collides with the Asian subcontinent, the Himalayas are a vast source of hydropower which is yet to be utilized. Over the past few years India has started an impressive program to develop a number of hydro-electric power plants in the Northern part of the country. One of the largest of these projects is the Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric project by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation of India. This site in the state of Assam, bordering Arunanchal Pradesh, has started construction works and will yield 2000MW. Further projects in that area will be developed to increase the power supply with more than 10000MW. EXCAVATION OF TUNNELS The project features the construction of a gravity dam 116m high from the river bed level, eight head race tunnels, pressure shafts and a power house to accommodate eight turbines of 250MW each. Part of the construction of this type of project includes the excavation of tunnels, i.e the headrace tunnels and river diversion tunnels. At Subansiri, SOMA Enterprise has won the order for the latter. To increase the production progress of these tunnels, SOMA has purchased three WIRTH Roadheaders, which have been commissioned successfully. The machines are one former Paurat T2.10 (E134) and two WIRTH T3.20 (E242) roadheaders. The T3.20 is a largest of WIRTH fleet with a weight of 120 tons and an installed cutting power of 300 kW. The roadheaders will excavate the tunnels with a cross-section of approx. 8.5m high and 11m wide. This will be excavated in two steps, i.e. by benching. The rock is a abrasive sandstone with an average UCS of 30MPa. However the rock is very homogeneous and compact, without cracks or fissures, requiring every cubic meter to be excavated by the picks on the cutterhead. Once the rock has been cut it disintegrates quite easily, especially when it comes into contact with water. This type of rock seems to be typical for the pre-mountainous area adjacent to the Himalayas. It is one of the youngest sandstone formations, which has not had the time and pressure to develop higher compressive strength. REMOTE PROJECT LOCATION A further challenge is the remote location. The project site is located in the middle of virgin rain forest and every part or support has to be brought to site. The nearest airport is in Guwahati, a days' driving over a single lane road, through rural area. Certainly an interesting experience, but logistically it requires adequate planning of spares and services to be available on site. To accommodate and cater all personnel for this project, a separate camp with the size of a village, has been set up. Once the roadheaders have finished their job, the project still has a long way to go before it can start generating energy. Under the current planning, it is expected that all works will be completed by the end of 2010. In the meantime, the roadheaders most certainly will have found another tunnelling job, either for hydropower or other infrastructure. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/cutting/wirth1/press5.html Wed, 23 Apr 2008 11:43:52 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/cutting/wirth1/press5.html Low Seam Coal Mining in South Africa South Africa is one of the biggest coal producing nations in the world. In South Africa it is the second biggest mining sector after gold. Coal is produced mostly for local demand, especially for power stations. Part of the coal is exported, most of it being shipped through Richards Bay coal terminal on the Kwazulu Natal north coast. The coal mines are located mainly in the north-eastern area of Johannesburg, in the province Mpumalanga, where a large number of open-pit and underground coal mines are in operation. Coal reserves in South Africa, as everywhere else, are not endless and with the current expectations, by 2040 only 7 billion tons will be left of a current estimated reserves of 34 billion tons. THE REMAINING COAL RESERVES The remaining reserves are different in nature. The thick high coal seams have been mined extensively in the past. More and more coal is now left in low coal seams, with a height varying from 1m to 2.8m. The quality of the coal is usually quite good and with current coal prizes these seams are economically interesting to mine. The underground mining method in South Africa is either longwall mining or room amp pillar (board amp pillar). In the latter method, the main excavation methods are drill and blast or preferably with continuous miners. PROTOTYPING ON LOCATION Continuous Miner H 4.30 For the low coal seams, WIRTH started the development of a low seam coal header several years ago. This low height continuous miner, has a minimum building height of only 1.1m and is capable to excavate up to 2,5m height. it is equipped with a 3.5m wide cutting drum, powered by two 200kW electric motors. The crawler tracks of the machine are driven by frequency controlled drives, allowing very precise and efficient tramming of the machine underground. The machine is operated through radio remote control. The first machine went to South Africa as a prototype and has been through the entire learning curve of a prototype machine. It was a hard time for the engineers and operators as well as for our client. In the end the work paid off as the machine improved on performance and reliability over the time. TSELENTIS COAL MINE One of the recent jobs carried out by a WIRTH Continuous Miner, was at Xtrata's Tselentis coal mine. This mine is located near Ermelo, over 200km east of Johannesburg. Although it is a fairly small operation for Xtrata's standards, it is a significant operation for Grinaker LTA, a specialized underground coal mining contractor. Tselentis is mined in a board & pillar operation with 13m square pillars and 6.5m wide roadways. Originally it was planned for two drill and blast sections and later on extended with a continuous miner section. This is where WIRTH CM came in. Meanwhile the two drill and blast sections have been discontinued. The mine has produced up to 44.000 tons per month with the continuous miner, in a seam height from 1.7m to 2.2m. This is well above the contractual target of 35.000 tons per month. The success lies with the powerful continuous miner and the good cooperation and skills of Grinaker's mine crew. UNTIL THE JOB IS DONE WIRTH permanently has a service engineer stationed at the mine, to supervise the performance and the maintenance of the machine. From WIRTH South Africa office in Boksburg, near Johannesburg International Airport, logistical support is provided with spare parts management and storage. With this example of innovation and product development, WIRTH engineering capacities have once again been proven. Furthermore it has also shown that WIRTH stays on the job until success has been achieved. With the continuous miner range, WIRTH will continue to explore the underground coal markets, with innovative products and highly skilled and motivated engineers. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/used_equipment/national-plant Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/used_equipment/national-plant National Plant & Equipment National Plant & Equipment is a privately-owned Australian company, providing a wide range of services to the earthmoving, mining and construction industries. We have a large fleet of mining equipment available that satisfies the specific needs of these industries through rental or sales. We source equipment internationally and locally to meet the demand for quality mining equipment, and value the need for our customers to meet their supply targets. FIELD SERVICE VEHICLE HIRE We have a large, fully-equipped 2,600m2 workshop and a complete team of specialised tradesman to ensure that we offer the best service in mining equipment rental. We offer quality equipment in-house. These take the form of fully-equipped field service vehicles, which serve our large rental fleet. As well as a range of safe, used machinery or low hour used equipment for sale, we offer equipment for both long and short-term mining vehicle hire. DOZER, SCRAPER AND ROLLER HIRE The range of mining equipment available for rental or sale includes: Dozers Wheel loaders Excavators Rubber tyre dozers Tool carriers Service trucks Water trucks Rear dump trucks Articulated dump trucks Scrapers Rollers Compactors MINING VEHICLE PARTS The company also offers an extensive range of equipment parts and attachments, and is able to offer products to suit most models. This mining spares range includes buckets, tracks, rippers, tynes, cabins, final drives, pumps and valves, and hydraulic hammers. MINING VEHICLE NETWORK National Plant & Equipment has an extensive range of makes, models and sizes in stock to meet mining and construction needs, and if you can&squo;t find what you are looking for through us, we will source it through our global network and relationships with suppliers. Our fleet consists of brands such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, O&K, Volvo and Euclid. We have an experienced and skilled team to offer full support throughout the equipment hire process, meaning that customers have the full backing of experts in maintenance, sales and rental. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/transportation/van-reenen Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/transportation/van-reenen Van Reenen Steel Van Reenen (VR) Steel manufactures optimised attachments for surface mining equipment, such as dragline buckets, dragline rigging, dippers, truck bodies, excavator buckets and hydraulic shovel buckets. A global leader in the steel fabrication industry, VR Steel is committed to excellent customer services through research and continuous product development. As experienced specialists in mining productivity, extensive research and development form the groundwork for providing our state-of-the-art fabricated mining equipment attachments. Each surface mining equipment attachment has been specifically engineered to increase efficiency, thereby increasing productivity. We treat our clients as partners and focus on comprehensive services from design through to manufacture, full maintenance and repair. DRAGLINE BUCKETS We manufacture dragline buckets, with a bucket capacity ranging from 30m³ to 80m³. The structure of the dragline buckets is strong and lightweight, with consistent bucket-fill factors of over 90%.Bucket size and other characteristics can be tailor-made to suit individual customer needs. TAPER BUCKETS The company also provides taper buckets, with a bucket capacity ranging from 30m³ to 80m³. Our taper buckets are suitable for use in UDD or standard hoist configurations, and no spreader bar is required. Other advantages of our taper buckets include faster and higher fill factors, and reduced Trunnion drag. DRAGLINE RIGGING The VR dragline rigging can be customised to match specific bucket sizes for customer convenience. It is fully fabricated, with optimised chain lengths, long-life pins and bushes and a long-life dump block with a sealed bearing sheave. MINING SHOVEL DIPPERS Our range of surface mining equipment attachments includes dippers. VR dippers have bucket capacities of between 15m³ and 70m³ for P&H, Bucyrus and Marion shovels. They include a dual-side latching system and allow for reduced door stress. The latch keeper of the dippers is placed out of the high wear and impact area, reducing the overall maintenance requirement. Our dippers effectively, repeatedly and reliably dampen door closing and eliminate impact stresses on mining equipment. EXCAVATOR BUCKETS VR Steel manufacture an excavator with a bucket capacity of between 15m³ and 50m³. Our work-hardened cast manganese bushes are durable and long lasting, allowing for reduced maintenance. The excavators have an optimised shape determined through material flow simulations to achieve maximum performance. They are designed using extensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to minimise stresses and maximise component life. HYDRAULIC FACE SHOVEL BUCKETS We offer a hydraulic face shovel with a bucket capacity ranging from 15m³ to 60m³. Advanced material flow simulations are used to determine final shape, which is optimised to achieve the highest possible fill factors with the shortest possible fill and dump times. SURFACE MINING TRUCK BODIES Additionally, we manufacture a surface mining truck body with a bucket capacity of between 60m³ and 180m³. Our truck bodies have a unique ridge back design, which provides very high natural rigidity. The truck body deflects material during loading, reduces impacts and allows for larger underside support providing better load distribution on the chassis. Further advantages of the surface mining truck bodies include: Unique canopy design Ultra-strong top rail design Signature VR rounded corner design Load body shell with a unique integral wear package Thicker, tougher and harder wearing sections are pre-assembled to form the complete shell Total body mass reductions of 20% to 30% are achievable I-Beam skeletal design Easier replacement of damaged or worn body shell sections With cutting-edge technology, housing some of the largest fabrication equipment in South Africa, and a company dedication to total support services, our clients expect and receive premium products. Fully accredited, we have established solid grounding within the mining and steel industries based on the success of our divisions. http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/ventilation/air-radiators Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/ventilation/air-radiators Air Radiators In partnership with our customers, Air Radiators is committed to the innovative design of heat transfer and air movement solutions for a range of industrial markets including mining, power generation, rail, defence, and heavy truck. Mining applications are demanding operating environments and involve unique characteristics relative to each specific area. Typical areas of application for our heat transfer and air movement slutions are: Loaders Drill rigs Excavators Dump trucks Underground and surface mining Coal and hard rock applications Maintenance and service vehicles EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT COOLING SYSTEMS Earthmoving applications are demanding operating environments and involve specific requirements relative to each area. Typical areas of application are scrapers, graders, loaders and haul trucks. Cooling systems in earthmoving equipment must equally be designed to suit the purpose, and Air Radiators has the technology and application engineering expertise to meet all challenges. ENGINE COOLING SYSTEMS Quarrying and similar earthmoving applications place extreme demands on engines and cooling systems. Excessive vibration levels, high ambient temperatures, dusty environments and impacts from processing operations are all threats to the integrity and service life of equipment. Air Radiators has developed significant experience in designing engine cooling systems customised to operate successfully in these environments, an example of which is striker crushing. The design brief for the C12 Caterpillar powered rock crusher called for the cooling system to be extremely robust, easily serviced, flexible and have low fouling characteristics. The cooling package design is based on a modular format, using heavy-duty plate fin cores for the Jacket Water (JW) and Charge Air Cooler (CAC) circuits. The JW and CAC coolers also use bolt-on header tanks to facilitate maintenance and ultra-fused header joints to ensure adequate service life. As the JW and CAC coolers are arranged in a &squo;single deck' configuration, customers have the choice of using a blower or suction fan without any modification to the unit or effect to cooling performance. FUEL COOLER KIT The complete kit incorporates fan and belt guarding, fuel cooler, core guard, deaeration tank, plumbing and vent line kit and frame mounts to the engine skid. Guard systems comply with Australian standard AS4024-2006. A high-performance multi-wing fan is used to meet the functional air flow requirements, and can be configured in blower or suction arrangement. A key element to the success of this project was the use of 3D design software -this capability significantly reduced development time and prototype first-time fitment. Air Radiators has a significant number of units operating successfully in Striker rock crusher applications, using a variety of Caterpillar engines, including C9, C10, C11, C12 and C13. MODULAR COOLING SYSTEM When MTU-Detroit undertook a project to re-power Hitachi EX-3600 excavators they turned to Air Radiators to supply a cooling solution compatible with this challenging application. The 350t EX-3600 excavator is capable of moving up to 21M3 of earth in each bucket load, and given its critical role in mining production, reliability is a key requirement of this piece of monster equipment. The repower project is replacing the existing engines with the state-of-the-art MTU 16V4000, rated at 1,600kW. The new MTU engines deliver improved reliability and power. Air Radiator&squo;s challenge was to develop a cooling package to meet the technical requirements of the new MTU engine, while meeting the physical constraints of the existing installation - all whilst achieving a high design ambient capability, designed to facilitate maintenance. Using 3D design software, the modular cooling system was developed as a ready-to-fit module, and includes a two-section radiator, deaeration system, and interface mountings. Over 23 EX-3600 excavators have been re-powered to date, with machines already exceeding 10,000 hours trouble-free operation. This project is another example of Air Radiator&squo;s ability to develop a solution uniquely customised to the client's needs. http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/johnsoncampmine/ Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/johnsoncampmine/ Johnson Camp Mine, Nord Resources The Johnson Camp property is located 65 miles east of Tucson, Arizona, US and carries substantial proven reserves of copper ore. Mining was commenced in the Johnson Camp mine by Cyprus Mines Corporation in the mid-1970s but ended ten years later due to low copper prices. "A feasibility study reported total proven and probable minable reserves of over 70 million tons of ore." The asset is now 100% owned by Nord Resources. The property includes the Johnson Camp mine which is an existing open pit copper mine. A feasibility study undertaken by Bilkerman Engineering & Technology Associates reported total proven and probable minable reserves of over 70 million tons of ore. GEOLOGY AND RESERVES The Johnson Camp mine is located along the east flank of the Little Dragoon Mountains in southeast Arizona. The Little Dragoon Mountains consist of a core of middle Precambrian granites and schists that are unconformably overlain by younger Precambrian metasediments and Paleozoic and Mesozoic sediments. Total proven and probable minable reserves are 73.4 million tons of ore at an average total copper grade of 0.335% total copper (TCU), containing 492 million pounds of copper and over 374 million pounds of recoverable copper, minable at a strip ratio of 0.66 to 1. MINING The property includes the Johnson Camp mine which is an existing open pit copper mine and production facility that uses the solvent extraction, electrowinning (SX-EW) process. The Johnson Camp mine includes two existing open pits, the Burro and Copper Chief bulk mining pits. Mining of the Johnson Camp Mine Project is by open-pit methods utilising mid-size earth-moving equipment. Major facilities consist of two open pits; one waste rock dump, three peach pads; various solution ponds; two raffinate ponds; one solvent extraction ( SX ) plant; one electro winning ( EW ) plant; one tank farm; seven storm water collection ponds; several production and monitor wells. ORE PROCESSING Open pit mining is carried out by drilling and blasting defined ore zones, excavation, truck hauling to the pit from the crushing circuit &dash; for crushing and agglomeration &dash; and then overland transportation of the prepared ore via conveyor to the leach pads. The ore is then placed in layers and subjected to leaching using a dilute sulphuric acid solution. "The Johnson Camp mine uses the solvent extraction, electrowinning (SX-EW) process." Leached copper solution (pregnant leach solution PLS) flows to the leach pad base where it is collected and directed to flow into the PLS ponds. These solutions are transferred to the SX plant where they are processed through mixed settlers and mixed first with an organic solution to extract the copper from the PLS. They are then run across a strong sulphuric acid solution to extract the copper from the organic solution to make a rich copper-bearing electrolyte that is transferred to the EW plant for processing into cathode copper. Copper barron raffinate solution from the SX plant returns to the raffinate ponds and is pumped back onto the leach pads for use in repeated leaching of new and existing and newly emplaced copper ores. Make-up sulphuric acid is added to the raffinate as necessary to enhance recovery from the leach pads. PRODUCTION AND COSTS Based on current reserves the Johnson Camp is expected to produce 25 million pounds of copper cathodes annually over a mine life of 16 years. Nord Resources has produced copper from existing heaps at Johnson Camp mine on a limited basis without mining additional ore. The company is currently awaiting approval for additional capital. Working capital is estimated at $683,000, to be repaid at the end of mine life. The financial projection assumes a salvage value of the mining, process and service equipment of $2,512,000. Mine closure costs have been estimated to total $1,850,000. A 1% marketing and delivery charge as applied to all copper sales. THE FUTURE In the past, the EW plant has produced copper of five 9s (99.999% copper) quality. The future operation will be at low current densities (22 to 23 amps per square foot) as compared to most operations and this should continue to ensure a high cathode quality. "In the past, the EW plant has produced copper of five 9s (99.999% copper) quality." The Nord updated feasibility study examined the throughput capacity of the proposed crushing and conveying circuit and concluded that the equipment was adequate to meet the production goals. BETA concurs with these findings. Nord has already purchased the primary crushing station from the Newmont Gold Quarry operation for use at Johnson Camp. Nord says that planned modifications are sufficient to meet production targets. Copper hit a record price of $8,820 in March 2008 and may well rise higher than that throughout the year adding impetus to all copper mining activities. http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/martabe/ Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/martabe/ Martabe, North Sumatra Following review of the recently completed Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), Oxiana's Board approved development of the Martabe gold and silver project in December 2007. The Board approval is subject to the receipt of final permits from the Government of Indonesia, which are expected by April 2008. The Martabe project is seen as one of the more promising undeveloped mineral deposits in Asia, containing extensive proven reserves of gold and silver. "The Martabe Contract of Work (CoW) covers a 2,500km² area, the most significant part of which is the Purnama deposit" The Martabe Contract of Work (CoW) covers a 2,500km² area, the most significant part of which is the Purnama deposit. It is a sulphidation epithermal deposit, which was discovered in 1997 through regional stream sediment sampling by Normandy Anglo Asia Ltd. Since then other deposits have also been discovered and resources at Martabe now stand at 6 million ounces of gold and 60 million ounces of silver. Oxiana became the owner of the Martabe project through the acquisition of Agincourt Resources Limited in early 2007. The Martabe project is located close to existing infrastructure and facilities and is bisected by the Trans-Sumatra highway. Supplies of grid power and process water are available, and the port of Sibolga is approximately 30km from the site. Subject to approvals the Martabe project will move into construction in 2008 and then into production at the end of 2009. GEOLOGY AND RESERVES Martabe's high sulphidation gold deposits exist within a sequence of tertiary volcanic and sedimentary rocks near a fault splay which is part of the Great Sumatran Fault complex. Episodic fault activity has been responsible for pulses of high-level magmatism and development of multi-stage phreatomagmatic breccias, flow dome complexes, hydrothermal alteration and gold mineralisation observed in the district. Gold mineralisation occurs in a number of deposits over a strike length of 7km. The most significant and best defined of these is the Purnama deposit, where a resource of 66.7 million tonnes containing 1.74g/t Au and 21.5g/t Ag for a total of 3.7 million ounces of gold and 46 million ounces of silver has been defined by diamond drilling. Two adjacent deposits, Baskari and Pelangi, plus primary gold potential at depth and other virgin targets are expected to provide upside. Total resources are 6Moz of gold and 60Moz of silver. Reserves are 2.3Moz of gold and 30Moz of silver. MINING Mining of the Purnama deposit will be undertaken by conventional open-pit methods with a low average strip ratio of 0.7:1. The processing plant will be a large-scale ore processing plant. The plant and infrastructure will be designed to allow for future expansion. ORE PROCESSING Oxiana expects to be treating 4.5 million tonnes of ore per annum using proven SAG and ball milling, and carbon-in-leach (CIL) technology. Recoveries are expected to average 76% for gold and 55% for silver. "Production on average will be 250,000oz of gold and approximately 2Moz of silver per annum." PRODUCTION AND COSTS Production on average will be 250,000oz of gold and approximately 2Moz of silver per annum over an initial nine-year production life. Martabe's development cost has been put at $310m and mining cash costs are estimated at $270/oz. First production is expected to start in December 2009. THE FUTURE The potential to discover mineralisation elsewhere in the CoW area is considered high and exploration is ongoing at a number of other prospects. Two adjacent deposits, Baskari and Pelangi, plus primary gold potential at depth and other virgin targets are expected to provide upside. A 5% interest is held in trust for local Indonesian stakeholders. http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/prominenthill/ Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.mining-technology.com/projects/prominenthill/ Prominent Hill Gold/Copper Mine The Prominent Hill gold and copper mine is 650km North West of the South Australian capital Adelaide, 130km north west of BHP Billiton's Olympic Dam and 130km south east of the town of Coober Pedy in the Gawler Craton of South Australia. "Recent exploration testing demonstrated that the copper-gold system extends at least twice as far as previously outlined." It was discovered in 2001 by Adelaide-based Minotaur Exploration Limited and is considered the most significant greenfields discovery in Australia for a decade. The mine is now 100% owned by Australian mining company Oxiana Limited which acquired Minotaur in 2005 and later spun-off the non-Prominent Hill assets into new company Minotaur Exploration Limited (MEP). Oxiana is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. Board approval for the mine was granted in 2006. Construction is in progress with production expected to commence in the second half of 2008. Key market will be sales of high-quality copper-gold concentrate to smelters in Asia and Australia. In a statement to the Australian Stock exchange in October 2007, Oxiana revised its projected costings for the mine up to $A1.08bn ($US960.1m). GEOLOGY AND RESERVES Stripping of the Prominent Hill open-pit reached the top of the orebody in October 2007 and mining now underway has produced a stockpile in preparation for processing. The resources identified are copper gold breccia: contained metal 1.9Mt Cu and 3.7Moz Au. Oxiana said that the mine will ramp up by late this year and in its first full year of production in 2009 is expected to produce 117,000t copper, 86,000oz gold and 390,000oz silver. Recent exploration testing beneath the Prominent Hill resource has returned positive results, demonstrating that the copper-gold system extends at least twice as far as previously outlined. Following this Oxiana has started a two-stage expansion and life extension study. Stage 1 is a potential 1&dash;2mtpa underground mine with higher grade copper and gold ore to supplement the 8mtpa open pit and is targeting first production from end 2011. The second stage is a deeper bulk underground mine development which would see mine life extended out to at least 2030. MINING The project will include development of an open-pit mine, a conventional grinding and flotation processing plant with an 8mtpa capacity, construction of a permanent village to accommodate a steady-state workforce of approximately 500 and construction of a haulage road, power line and bore field. The dimensions of the initial open-pit mine will be 480m deep × 1.4km × 1.2km. ORE PROCESSING Ore processing will use conventional crushing, grinding and flotation. 8mt/a throughput with an average stripping ratio of 7.2. The average head-grade is 1.24% copper with grades higher for the first four years. Average recovery is 86% for copper and 77% for gold. PRODUCTION AND COSTS In October last year the company released a detailed report on Prominent Hill and other projects to the Australian Stock Exchange. The report showed that while Prominent Hill is on schedule the project bill has increased to $A1.08bn ($US960.1m). "In 2009, Prominent Hill's first full year of production output of 117,000t copper, 86,000oz gold and 390,000oz silver is expected." Stripping of the Prominent Hill open-pit reached the top of the orebody in October 2007 and mining now underway has produced a stockpile in preparation for processing. Oxiana said that the mine will ramp up by late this year to produce 25,000t copper, 15,000oz gold and 75,000oz silver in 2008. In 2009, Prominent Hill's first full year of production output of 117,000t copper, 86,000oz gold and 390,000oz silver is expected. THE FUTURE Prominent Hill is expected to run for an initial ten years, with studies now underway into the potential of mining resources immediately below the planned pit. A larger zone below this is also expected to be mined using bulk caving methods. Good potential also exists to discover satellite deposits to Prominent Hill and other deposits in the wider tenement package. Forecast production is 104,000t/a copper in the first four full years; 71,000t/a for the next six years; and 115,000oz/a gold over the life of the mine.