All posts by Daniel Gleeson

CIMIC boosts ownership in mining services provider Thiess

Mining mergers and acquisitions, Mining services, ,

CIMIC Group has entered into an agreement with funds advised by Elliott Advisors (UK) Ltd (Elliott) regarding the acquisition by CIMIC of an additional 10% equity interest in Thiess, a leading global mining services provider.

The acquisition, for a purchase price of A$320 million ($210 million), increases CIMIC’s ownership of Thiess to 60%.

CIMIC and Elliott will continue to have equal board representation while CIMIC will strengthen its governance over the day-to-day operations of the company.

Consequently, CIMIC will fully consolidate Thiess in its financial accounts. The acquisition will be positive for CIMIC’s credit ratings, it said.

CIMIC Group Executive Chairman, Juan Santamaria, said: “Increasing our ownership of Thiess strengthens CIMIC’s business profile, as it grows its commodities portfolio to include metals and minerals critical to the world’s shift to zero emissions and develops services to enable sustainable mining, reflecting the strategic importance of the energy transition to CIMIC.

“Thiess is a well performing business underpinned by long-term, low-risk contracts, providing an annuity-style income stream and stable cash flows.”

Thiess is a global leader in diversified mining services, providing open-pit and underground mining, asset management and sustainability focused solutions to clients around the world. With more than 15,000 employees, Thiess operates in Australia, Asia and the Americas across more than 60 projects and had 2023 revenue of A$5.9 billion.

CIMIC sold 50% of Thiess to Elliott in 2020, with a put option back to CIMIC exercisable between January 2024 and December 2026. Following this transaction, the put option for the remining 40% is exercisable between April 2025 and December 2026.

Intramotev to deploy three TugVolt battery-electric railcars at Carmeuse Americas mine site

Automation, Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining services, Power supply for mines, , , ,

Intramotev, the technology company building autonomous zero-emissions rail solutions, has announced a partnership with mining company, Carmeuse Americas, to deploy its TugVolt technology at a mining site in Cedarville, Michigan.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better partner to deploy our technology in Michigan than Carmeuse,” Tim Luchini, Intramotev’s CEO, said. “For over 160 years, Carmeuse has been on the frontlines of innovation, and we’re thrilled to partner with them to cut emissions, save fuel costs, and keep their workers safe.”

With support from the Michigan Mobility Funding Program, Intramotev will deploy three TugVolt battery-electric railcars at a Carmeuse Americas mining site in Cedarville to support a new railway that will carry one six-car train of ore per hour. It will be the first real-world operational deployment of a battery-electric freight railcar capable of operating without a locomotive pulling it, the company claims. It will also be one of the largest scale implementations of industrial robots.

The deployment is estimated to eliminate up to 55,000 gallons (208,198 litres) of diesel consumption and 617 tons (560 t) of vehicle-level CO2 emissions.

“We’re excited to partner with Intramotev to deploy their TugVolt technology,” Jeff Bittner, Senior VP of Operations, said. “This partnership represents an incredible opportunity to increase our efficiency, decrease our carbon footprint, and keep our workers safe and focused on what they do best through adoption of emerging digital technologies. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

TugVolt is a proprietary kit that can retrofit/upfit existing rail cars to become battery-electric. It can decouple to independently service first- and last-mile legs, providing the type of flexibility that, Luchini says, will allow the system to more readily compete with trucking.

MEVCO to bring Rivian R1T pick up truck to global mining sector

Mining equipment, Mining services, Sustainable mining, , ,

MEVCO (Mining Electric Vehicle Company) has entered an exclusive global partnership with Rivian Automotive, Inc to provide electric vehicles to the mining, mining services and mining equipment industries. MEVCO specialises in providing sustainable and efficient electric vehicle fleets solutions to the mining industry.

This collaboration signals a new standard for responsible and forward-thinking mining practices, and is a catalyst for positive change in the mining landscape, the companies say.

Matt Cahir, CEO of MEVCO, said: “The Rivian R1T is widely acclaimed for its on and off-road capabilities, and its robust design and adaptability make it the ideal candidate to meet the many challenges mining presents. The integration of Rivian’s technology with MEVCO’s proven track record in mining-specific electric vehicles is poised to yield a fleet that exceeds the requirements of the most demanding operators.

“The shift to electric solutions extends beyond environmental and financial advantages. It is about fostering a safer, healthier environment for mine operators, particularly in subterranean settings where the elimination of tailpipe emissions is paramount. The Rivian R1T, in terms of safety and off-road capabilities, stands unparalleled.

“We have already seen strong support for the Rivian product, as well as the infrastructure MEVCO is building to support the rollout.”

The Rivian R1T is the only pick up truck – electric or otherwise – in the USA to earn the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), according to MEVCO.

Dagan Mishoulam, Rivian’s VP of Strategy, said: “Our fleet offering is better known for our commercial vans, so its great to see our R1 vehicles being incorporated into MEVCO’s fleet. We’re delighted they are electrifying their fleet with us, and we’re excited to help them reduce tailpipe emissions.”

MEVCO will not only customise the Rivan R1T to mining specifications, allowing them to operate in the harshest of conditions in both surface and underground mines, but also will support mines on charging infrastructure, maintenance and workflows.

Michael Wright on Thiess’ sustainable mining mission

Automation, Environmental, Mining mergers and acquisitions, Mining services, Sustainable mining, , , , , , , , , , ,

It has been a busy few months for mining services provider, Thiess, having announced a planned acquisition of Australia-based underground metals business PYBAR Holdings Limited and its 100% subsidiary Pybar Mining Services Pty Ltd, plus released a comprehensive sustainability report detailing its progress towards its 2025 decarbonisation target.

The company also celebrated its 90th anniversary earlier this month, paying respects to its origins as a small farming and roadworks company, Thiess Bros, which began operating in rural Australia in 1934.

IM recently put some questions to Michael Wright, Thiess Group Executive Chair and CEO, on the company’s sustainability plans and what PYBAR could bring to the group.

IM: How do you see the addition of PYBAR complementing your sustainability aims/targets? Has PYBAR been engaged on underground mining services contracts looking to leverage low- (diesel-electric/hybrid) or no-carbon (battery) solutions for load and haul, for example?

MW: The acquisition of PYBAR further accelerates our strategy to diversify our commodities portfolio and bring a increasingly greater focus on metals and minerals. PYBAR has significant expertise developing underground copper and gold projects, such as the Eloise Mine, owned by AIC, and the Carrapateena Mine, owned now by BHP.

Michael Wright, Thiess Group Executive Chair and CEO

We are currently planning and engaging with PYBAR, prior to them joining the Thiess Group once the customary sale conditions are satisfied and the acquisition process is finalised.

Thiess Group companies all play a part in efforts to improve the sustainability of mining globally, and to achieve our target of net zero Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions from diesel combustion by 2050. Once PYBAR is part of the Group, we will work with them on initiatives to achieve this target.

IM: How do you see your new underground offering competing with the likes of Barminco, Byrnecut and Macmahon? What will your unique proposition be to the market?

MW: One of PYBAR’s key competitive advantages is their long-standing client relationships. They have a well-deserved reputation for being an experienced underground metals and minerals hard-rock mining specialist.

Thiess currently operates underground in Mongolia, and having PYBAR as part of the Thiess Group will re-establish our presence in the Australian underground mining market, and enable us to expand our service offering to our clients.

Thiess Group companies will work with PYBAR to optimise efficiencies and leverage opportunities from our combined strengths and client relationships, while maintaining and growing the PYBAR business.

IM: Are there any technology areas that PYBAR has been involved with in the underground mining space that complement your own surface mining work with automation and electrification?

MW: Thiess has been on an autonomous mining journey since 2012, and today our fleet includes 21 autonomous haul trucks, nine autonomous drills and six semi-autonomous dozers. Through MACA also, the group has progressed vendor-agnostic autonomy and electrification. So as a group, we have a strong team and strong focus on both autonomy and electrification.

Similarly, PYBAR has been on a technology journey. In 2019, they deployed two Cat R1700 underground loaders at Dargues Gold Mine to prepare for its advanced underground automation. The new machines were equipped with Cat’s next generation Command for underground technology, enabling the machines to be remotely controlled from the surface from early-2020 – realising significant productivity, efficiency and safety gains.

There is significant opportunity bringing PYBAR into the Thiess Group.

IM: Following the publication of your 2023 sustainability report, can you tell me anymore about the hybrid excavator trial you are planning in Indonesia? Also, what vehicles are to be involved in the battery-powered light/medium trucks in Australia work you are due to carry out this year? What about the plans for MACA’s fleet retrofit solutions in Australia? Are these solutions soon to start up at Karlawinda?

MW: Our hybrid excavator trial started last month at one of our Indonesian projects. Two 30 t hybrid excavators are being tested as part of our commitment to reduce our emissions. We’re monitoring the trial progress, and will provide an update in our 2024 sustainability report.

We have two light battery-electric trucks due to arrive in Australia in coming weeks, which will be deployed to two of our projects, and are progressing the installation of the charging infrastructure at the selected sites.

Work also continues at MACA to develop a retrofitting solution for existing fleet to reduce emissions at a lower initial capital cost and in a shorter time frame than new electric haul trucks. We’re continuing detailed engineering studies, with the plan to deliver the first project in coming months.

IM: Anything else to add on the topic of mining technology as it relates to your net-zero journey?

MW: Our ambition is to achieve net zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and Scope 3 emissions from diesel combustion in our operated fleet. We are pleased with our progress to date and are on track to meet our 2025 Scope 1 and 2 emissions target (excludes Scope 1 and 2 emissions from MACA civil projects. We will look to develop a Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction target for MACA civil division in 2024).

We continue to invest in and trial a range of transitional lower carbon technologies with gas and hydrogen trickle feed options. In 2021, we joined the Hydra Consortium, which is investigating the use of renewable hydrogen to power mining fleets. After construction and trial of their first hydrogen fuel cell-based powertrain prototype, Hydra is now working on phase 3 of the trial to continue to improve and test the technology.

As well, the Thiess Group recently became Toyota’s first customer for its locally-assembled hydrogen fuel cell stationary power generator, which we plan to trial in our mining operations in New South Wales.

We are also exploring dual-fuel vehicles. In 2023, Thiess successfully converted and trialled a dual-fuel Caterpillar 793F at a mine site in the Bowen Basin, with demonstrated reductions in emissions and diesel consumption. We continue to explore expansion opportunities for this and other technology trials.

CSI Mining Services

CSI Mining Services to deliver haulage services for Tier One miner in Queensland

Mine operation news, Mining services, , ,

CSI Mining Services (CSI) says it is set to expand its operations into Queensland, Australia, following a contract award to deliver haulage services for a Tier One mining company.

The new load and haul operations contract will see CSI running eight Kenworth C509 quad road trains – the biggest single engine road trains in the world featuring a 330-t-payload and 425-t gross combination mass.

MinRes Mining Services Chief Executive, Mike Grey, said expanding into Queensland was an exciting milestone for the company as it continues a significant period of growth that will see it double in the next two years.

“We are excited to expand our operations into the east coast of Australia, opening up new business opportunities and access to new labour markets,” he said.

CSI will employ more than 50 site-based personnel to support the contract, prioritising local employment and presenting opportunities to work at MinRes sites across the country.

Businesses in far north Queensland will also benefit, with CSI set to partner with local companies to support the operation where feasible.

Martin Engineering marks 50-year anniversary of world’s first low-pressure air cannon

Environmental, Mining equipment, ,

A leader in bulk handling solutions, Martin Engineering, is marking the 50th anniversary of its invention of the world’s first low-pressure air cannon.

Air cannons have transformed material flows in bulk processing systems, eliminating problematic internal buildups and blockages. After five decades of continuous innovation, Martin Engineering says it remains at the forefront of air cannon advancements, enabling industrial plants to run more profitably, efficiently and safely than ever.

The company launched the world’s first low-pressure pneumatic air cannon – its Big Blaster® – in 1974. It was devised and developed by Carl Matson, a member of Martin’s senior team and cousin of the firm’s founder Edwin F. Peterson.

The patented technology was designed to dislodge stubborn material stuck to the inside walls of hoppers and silos by firing precisely timed bursts of compressed air to keep bulk material flowing and preventing the growth of serious build-ups and blockages.

The air cannon was originally aimed at the same quarrying applications as the Vibrolator®, the Martin-patented industrial ball vibrator on which the company’s success had been built since its inception in 1944.

By the 1980s, as Martin Engineering expanded its global presence, the Big Blaster was already being reimagined for use in high-temperature industrial applications to maintain the flow of sticky materials through the process and minimise unscheduled downtime.

Martin air cannons soon proved to be transformational for sectors such as cement, for the first time signalling an end to workers having to access the interior of preheater vessels to manually break off hefty material build-ups using a high pressure water jet – one of the most unpleasant and hazardous jobs on a cement plant.

By the 1990s Martin Engineering had developed an extreme heat and velocity version of the Big Blaster, the XHV, with an all-metal construction capable of withstanding the harshest of conditions. In the 2000s Martin became the first to introduce safer positive-pressure firing valve with its Tornado air cannon – technology that prevents unintentional firing if there’s a drop in system pressure, and also allows solenoid valves to be positioned up to 60 m from the air cannon for easier access and maintenance. Designed with safety in mind, the positive firing valve also delivers a more powerful blast.

Soon after that came the introduction of the Hurricane valve, located in the rear of the air cannon tank rather at the tank and nozzle junction, greatly improving safety and ease of maintenance. The exterior-facing design eliminates the need for removal of the tank so maintenance is a simple one-worker operation requiring only minutes for replacement.

In 2008, Martin Engineering opened its industry-leading Center for Innovation, which accelerated the company’s air cannon technology advancements including:
SMART™ Series Nozzles with multiple nozzle tips, one of which features a retractable design that extends the 360° nozzle head into the material stream only when firing, protecting it from repeated abrasions and extreme temperatures. Its clever Y-shaped assembly means the nozzle can be installed, accessed and serviced without removing the air cannon or further disruption to the vessel structure and refractory.

The Martin® Thermo Safety Shield acts as a safety barrier to allow timely and safe maintenance of air cannon systems. It protects workers from exposure to severe temperatures so that maintenance can take place safely and production stays on schedule.

Martin Engineering’s current air cannon designs are the result of the research and development in the Center for Innovation, located at the company’s headquarters in Neponset, Illinois. The center will open its doors to visitors in the Summer of 2024 as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations.

Brad Pronschinske, Martin Engineering’s Global Air Cannon Product Manager, said: “From the very beginning our air cannons were specifically designed to produce a quiet but powerful, high-velocity discharge of plant-compressed air to dislodge buildups and enhance material flow. They were developed to be capable of handling the high temperatures, harsh gases and abrasive, corrosive materials associated with heavy industries, and yet have low maintenance requirements and low costs. Since the launch of the Big Blaster 50 years ago we have continued to innovate, introducing smarter and ever more powerful air cannon systems that improve efficiency, productivity and safety.

“We’re especially proud that Martin air cannons have become so important in reducing the health and safety risks associated with clearing blockages manually – such as working in confined spaces, working at height, falling materials, and working in hot and dusty environments. Our team is always working on new developments and we’re looking forward to bringing the next generation of air cannon technologies to our customers all over the world.”

Hermosa

South32 selects Nogales location for Hermosa ROC

Automation, IoT, Mineral project development, Mining software, Precious metals, , , , , , ,

South32’s Hermosa project has announced that it would construct its remote operations centre (ROC) in Nogales, Arizona, USA, with the facility set to be named Centro.

Hermosa is, South32 says, currently the only advanced mining project in the US capable of producing two federally designated critical minerals – zinc and manganese.

The ROC location decision follows two years of extensive analysis and careful consideration of Hermosa’s county-wide planning and employment goals to retain the economic benefits of the project in the Santa Cruz County area, it says.

As part of the location announcement, the Hermosa project is also debuting a new name for the ROC: Centro, a name chosen by the community in an online vote that took place earlier this year.

Hermosa Project President, Pat Risner, said: “Locating Centro in Nogales enables us to help transform the Santa Cruz County economy, by creating and training local residents without prior mining experience to fill high-skilled, good-paying jobs so the next generation has more opportunities right here at home.”

The selected location, just off Interstate 19 near the Mariposa Industrial Park, is approximately 70 miles (113 km) south of Tucson and approximately 28 miles to the Hermosa mine site. The building location will reduce commuter traffic to and from the mine site, as well as help build out local roads and infrastructure in the surrounding area, South32 explained.

Designed as a commercial building with an office-like setting, Centro will accommodate employees and the automation technology needed to remotely monitor and operate some of the underground and surface equipment located at the mine site. Centro will host around 200 full-time employees over several shifts in a 24-hour period.

Centro will be part of a 9 acre (3.6 ha) complex that will also include an employee parking lot, a park & ride service area to take employees and contractors to our other sites, and a garden. Construction will begin by the end of 2024.

In addition to Centro in Nogales, the Hermosa project is assessing the potential to site additional buildings, operational and/or job training infrastructure throughout Santa Cruz County.

As the first mining project added to the federal government’s FAST-41 permitting process, the Hermosa project aims to put southern Arizona in the driver’s seat of the clean energy race, supplying two critical minerals needed for the expansion of clean energy technologies and associated infrastructure.

Back in February, South32’s board gave final investment approval to develop the Taylor deposit, part of the Hermosa project, saying it would cost some $2.16 billion based on feasibility study results.

It is a project that is set to apply ‘next generation mine’ design principles using automation and technology to drive efficiencies and lower operational greenhouse gas emissions. This includes a plan to incorporate battery-electric LHDs, drilling and ancillary fleets. This strategy, included in the feasibility study, results in improved efficiency, reduced diesel consumption and greenhouse emissions compared with the prefeasibility study on the project.

Boliden selects Radtonics industrial 5G network as comms backbone for Garpenberg automation advances

Automation, Base metals, IoT, Mine operation news, Mining services, , , ,

Boliden has entered into an agreement with Radtonics, regarding the creation of a private industrial 5G network at its Garpenberg mine, in Sweden.

Among other things, the private 5G network will play an important role as a communication channel in a project for autonomous transport initiated at the mine.

Boliden is working strategically to use modern technology that automates processes, increases operational reliability and lays the foundation for long-term sustainable mining operations, Radtronics says. By implementing Radtonics’ industrial 5G network, the company adds an important component to that strategy.

Boliden chose Radtonics after a procurement process where several 4G and 5G options were evaluated. In the end, it was Radtonics’ solution for private industrial 5G networks that best met Boliden’s stringent requirements, the company says.

With Radtonic’s solution, Boliden Garpenberg gets its own private network that is both easy and flexible to implement. A private 5G network provides better transparency in the network and facilitates monitoring and data utilisation, according to Radtonics.

Radtonics is a Swedish company with global ambitions that has developed a unique solution for private industrial networks for 5G. With its technology, the company develops and builds high-quality industrial networks in a simple, automated and cost-effective way. The agreement with Boliden is another important strategic step in the company’s expansion.

Patric Lind, CEO and co-founder of Radtonics, said: “The fact that Boliden chooses Radtonics as its industrial 5G partner in this strategically important project is a confirmation that our technology and knowledge meet the industry’s requirements for robustness, reliability and innovation.”

Sandvik to supply electric rotary drills for Mongolia’s Tsagaan Suvarga project

Automation, Base metals, Mine operation news, Mining equipment, , , , , ,

Mongolyn Alt MAK LLC has selected Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions to supply five electric DR410iE rotary drill rigs for the Tsagaan Suvarga project in Mongolia.

This significant partnership underscores Sandvik’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to enhance mining operations worldwide.

The Tsagaan Suvarga project, implemented by Mongolyn Alt MAK LLC, is a significant undertaking led by a 100% national company of great importance in the Mongolian mining industry, Sandvik says. As a result of extensive detailed exploration spanning from 2001 to 2008, a total of 1.6 million tons of copper and 66,000 tons of molybdenum reserves were determined and registered in the state reserve fund.

The Tsagaan Suvarga project, will create over 1,300 permanent jobs and 5,000-7,500 more through subcontractors. It’s estimated to contribute around $150 million annually to national and local budgets, totaling $4 billion in tax revenue for Mongolia. Furthermore, it is an important project for the country’s economy, capable of generating approximately 60% of its benefits through tax revenues, payments, and fees without reliance on government investment.

As part of this landmark project, Sandvik will deliver five electric DR410iE drills to enhance drilling operations at the Tsagaan Suvarga site. These advanced rotary drills represent the pinnacle of mining technology, designed to optimise efficiency, productivity and safety in challenging mining environments.

Daniel Kopecky, Business Line Manager – Surface Drills Sales Area South East Asia at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, said: “We are honoured to be selected as the supplier of choice for the Tsagaan Suvarga project. Our cutting-edge rotary drills will play a crucial role in supporting Mongolyn Alt MAK LLC’s mission to unlock the full potential of the Tsagaan Suvarga deposit. We remain committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower our customers to achieve their goals safely and sustainably.”

Erdenes Tsagaan Suvarga LLC’s Mine Manager, Mungunjoloo B, said: “We are thrilled to be the first users of Sandvik’s latest DR410iE smart electric-powered rotary drill rigs. We are confident these drills will significantly enhance the efficiency of our drilling and blasting operations. Furthermore, the electric, intelligent, and remote-operation capabilities of these rigs lay the groundwork for a modern, data-driven mining operation that prioritises operator well-being, safety and productivity. This acquisition represents a major leap forward for our company, and even for the mining industry within the country.”

Deliveries of the five  are scheduled to commence in the June quarter and conclude by the December quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone in the development of the Tsagaan Suvarga project.

FIRSTGREEN Industries launches ROCKEAT, the electric, cabinless skid steer loader

Automation, Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining services, Power supply for mines, , , , ,

FIRSTGREEN Industries, the manufacturer of what it says is the first and only commercially available all-electric, zero-emissions skid steer loader, has launched ROCKEAT, the company’s newest line of electric, cabinless skid steer loaders.

Designed with a low clearance, 360° camera and remote operability, ROCKEAT machines redefine safety and efficiency in mining, construction and other hazardous industries, it says.

ROCKEAT is designed to prioritise operator safety through its cabinless design and remote control operability, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on job sites. As an all-electric skid steer, ROCKEAT produces zero carbon emissions, minimum operating fluids and near-silent operation, transforming the industry standard of loud, dangerous and dirty diesel-powered machinery into a safer, healthier and environmentally sustainable solution, FIRSTGREEN says.

“We are thrilled to introduce ROCKEAT skid steers to the US market, which represents a significant leap forward in safety and sustainability for traditionally dangerous, high-emission industries like construction and mining,” Marcus Suess, Chief Operating Officer for FIRSTGREEN Industries in North America, said. “With continued national support to accelerate the expansion of critical mineral mining projects on home soil, we take great pride in offering a solution that not only addresses pressing environmental concerns but also contributes to the resurgence of homegrown industry.”

ROCKEAT machines are charged using a standard 110 V or 220 V outlet, with no specialised charging equipment or infrastructure required. They are also equipped with a battery management system that can sustain up to eight hours of continuous operation.

The machines are specifically designed with a low profile to navigate and function efficiently in confined or restricted spaces, providing manoeuvrability and durability. Machine precision is achieved through four individual speeds for both hydraulic and travel functionalities. These can be further modified by the operator. And ROCKEAT functionality allows operators to finetune each of the four travel speeds for optimal performance in specific tasks.

The new ROCKEAT line includes 700 and 1200 models that are 67 in (1.7 m) and 71 in wide, respectively, and compatible with lead-acid and lithium batteries. With a maximum power of 3 x 36.2 hp (27 kW), maximum torque of 3 x 89 foot-pounds, and load capacity of 1,500 to 3,300 pounds, ROCKEAT sets a new standard with unparalleled features, versatility and performance capabilities, the company says.