Doppelmayr Transport Technology GmbH, based in Wolfurt, Austria has announced a cooperation with raise boring specialist Master Drilling Group Ltd, headquartered in Fochville, South Africa. Doppelmayr did not detail the nature of the tie-up but told IM that the main reason for the cooperation was that both companies “see potential in joining their expertise, in order to contribute to new material transport opportunities for the clients’ benefit.”

One aspect of the cooperation relates to Doppelmayr’s vertical material transport system, Vertical RopeCon®, which the Austrian company says opens up new material transport opportunities for underground mining and which has been referenced in the cooperation announcements.

Doppelmayr says of the technology: “Underground mining makes high demands on material transport, such as limited space as well as the necessity to avoid exhaust emissions and heat development, to name only some. The Doppelmayr Vertical RopeCon® gives the chance to reduce the haul truck fleet and the exhaust emissions.”

The novel concept adapts the proven RopeCon® system to the specific requirements of an underground application. In the loading station, the wheel sets run on guiding rails, which safely guide the belt into the shaft. Ropes in the shaft guide the belt at all times. Doppelmayr says maintenance is simple and cost effective, as all moving parts are mounted to the belt and will pass the terminals at regular intervals. Ropes and shaft can be inspected either using an inspection vehicle or by technical devices. Access to the shaft is not required. In addition, re-use of existing ventilation shafts is possible. As the main drive is installed above ground, underground heat development is reduced.