The optimisation of a mechanised platinum mining section

Abstract

Mechanised mining is an important strategy to improve the safety and reduce the cost of mining operations. The aim of this project is to analyse and improve the performance of the Extra Low Profile (XLP) section at Anglo Platinum’s Waterval Central Shaft. An extensive range of Industrial Engineering tools and techniques such as business modelling, SWOT analysis, static modelling and the Monte-Carlo method were used to develop a solution for the XLP section. The solution entails changes in the XLP fleet, the mining method and the way human resources are managed within the XLP section. Should this solution be implemented, it will enable the XLP section at Waterval Central Shaft to perform to its potential. Anglo Platinum will be able to extend the introduction of XLP equipment to other mines, recognising that the modernisation of their mining operations improves safety and cost-effectiveness.