Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold (FCX) and Phelps Dodge Corporation have announced that the shareholders of both companies approved FCX’s acquisition of Phelps Dodge at special meetings yesterday. At each meeting, approximately 98% of the votes cast supported the transaction. The transaction is expected to close on March 19, 2007. Richard C. Adkerson, FCX’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are pleased with the approval from shareholders which will allow us to complete the acquisition of Phelps Dodge. This is an exciting time for our company as we transform FCX into the world’s largest publicly traded copper producer.” Upon the closing of the merger, FCX will operate a geographically diverse portfolio of long-lived reserves of copper, gold and molybdenum. The Grasberg mine, the world’s largest copper and gold mine in terms of reserves, will be the key asset of the combined company. FCX will operate significant mining operations in North and South America and will proceed with the initial development of the world-class Tenke Fungurume project in the Democratic Republic of Congo. FCX explores for, develops, mines and processes ore containing copper, gold and silver in Indonesia, and smelts and refines copper concentrates in Spain and Indonesia. Phelps Dodge is one of the world’s leading producers of copper and molybdenum and is the largest producer of molybdenum-based chemicals and continuous-cast copper rod. read more

On June 17, the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IoM3) will host a unique double launch event in London to introduce two brand new innovations for the mining industry:- IMMa and the PERC (Pan European Resources Committee) Code. The launch will be celebrated with the Annual Prestige Lecture – John McGagh, Head of Innovation at Rio Tinto will describe Rio’s great advances in mining by remote control in the Pilbara of Western Australia in a talk on The Mine of the Future. IMMa: The International Mining and Minerals Association is the new public face of the four resources divisions of the IoM3, representing those Institute members that belong to the Applied Earth Science, Mineral Processing & Extractive Metallurgy, Mining Technology and Petroleum & Drilling divisions. IMMa is the home for minerals industry professionals in the UK. Its launch coincides with a period of unprecedented demand for mineral and energy resources, when the mining industry is as buoyant as it has been in a lifetime and the need for skilled professionals is at an all-time high.The PERC Code: This committee has been working for several years to produce a European Resource Reporting Code for use on stock exchanges in London and other European capitals and it is now ready to launch the new PERC code into the public arena. Mining analysts and financiers should not miss the unveiling of these new regulations that will affect future mining IPOs.This year, A buffet reception will follow the prestige lecture to enable the audience to mingle and network. The day’s timetable:16.00 The PERC Code Launch: two presentations and questions17.00 Break17.30 IMMa Launch17.45 Prestige Lecture: The Mine of the Future18.30 Buffet receptionLocation: IoM3, 1 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Date: Tuesday, June 17th, 2008The Launch Day events are open to all with a professional interest in the mining industry. Admission is free but only by ticket. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis, as places are limited. Apply for tickets by e-mail or telephone to Frances Perry, the IMMa secretary. frances.perry@iom3.org +44(0)20 7451 7324 read more

Immersive Technologies says it is the “mining industry’s leading training simulator provider.” It is certainly continuing to record great success and earlier this year achieved another significant milestone with the successful certification of its 700th participant in its unique simulator program ‘TrainerAdvantage’.  TrainerAdvantage was launched by Immersive Technologies in March 2006 to support the growing demand for its Advanced Equipment (AE) Simulator. The three-level certification program includes comprehensive classroom and hands-on sessions working with the AE Simulator under the instruction of an Immersive Technologies’ certified instructor. Each level is designed to progressively increase the training personnel’s knowledge from basic operation of the simulator to advanced training administration operation. Peter Templeton, Global Customer Service Manager for Immersive Technologies and coordinator of the TrainerAdvantage program, has to date deployed the course in 29 countries around the world. He said, “In the last four years since the course’s commencement, we have witnessed the mines that have completed the course, significantly increase their level of simulator utilisation, understanding and sophistication resulting in improved training programs that are producing safer and more profitable operators.” Immersive says its “TrainerAdvantage program is recognised as the global certification standard for simulator – trained personnel in the mining and earthmoving industry and provides mines with a means to identify qualified staff when recruiting.AE Simulators are considered vital to many of the world’s leading mining companies such as BHP Billiton, VALE and Rio Tinto. From the Congo to northern Canada, mines are increasing safety and reducing their cost per tonne by using Immersive Technologies’ simulators daily to train and test their operators. The company has exclusive licensing and technical information alliances with the leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), including: Caterpillar, Hitachi, Komatsu, Liebherr and P&H MinePro.  Immersive has just released its next generation AE Simulators – the PRO3 for surface mining and the UG360 for underground mining. Incorporating a series of new technologies to increase training effectiveness, they significantly raise the standard for mining equipment training simulators.  Designed to simulate surface mining equipment, and available in transportable and classroom versions, the PRO3 builds on the huge success of its predecessor the AES Series 2B which, Immersive says, “has become the global standard in mining over the past 10 years with many hundreds of units now located across 29 countries. The new UG360 has been designed for the specific needs of the underground mining industry. It is the first of its kind to deliver the level of realism accuracy required for training.”Immersive Technologies funded a significant investment in research and development over a three-year period resulting in the PRO3 and UG360 simulators setting new standards for the industry. Designed from the ground up, the key objectives for the PRO3 and UG360 were to maximise training effectiveness, simplify usability and extend reliability.  Inspiration was drawn from many sources, including Immersive’s many years of experience with its large, global, customer base, feedback from its OEM exclusive alliance partners, staff feedback and ideas from other industries.  Major technological advancements for the PRO3 surface mining simulator include a seamless 180° visual display system, together with a unique feature that dynamically adjusts the perspective of the operator, providing a true real-world view outside of the cabin whilst simultaneously increasing the operator’s level of depth perception.  The UG360 simulator includes a new 360° visual system designed specifically for the unique needs of underground mining. Both simulators are installed with new, highly responsive motion platforms that accurately simulate the movement of mining equipment.  The level of simulation realism delivered by the PRO3 and UG360 has not previously been experienced by the mining industry. Also added are a series of advancements for transportation, increased ambient temperature operating range, occupant comfort and simplified usability and serviceability.  “Our next generation simulators are a quantum leap forward for our customers and for the mining industry. I am pleased to say that the Immersive team has excelled itself by delivering two exceptional training simulators.  Immersive is focused squarely on increasing the operator safety and the profitability of our mining customers. The PRO3 and UG360 together with our integration and support services provide mines with unparalleled solutions that are capable of delivering outstanding results.” said Peter Salfinger, CEO, Immersive Technologies.  Displayed for the first time at the AusIMM 7th Large Open Pit Mining Conference in Perth Western Australia, the PRO3 received substantial interest from new and existing Immersive Technologies’ customers. During this prestigious event, Paul Davis, Executive Global Business Development Manager for Immersive Technologies, presented delegates with a paper on Linking Operator Competency with Performance. This presentation highlighted the success in business improvement generated to date by the PRO3’s predecessor the AES 2B.  “We are excited by the release of these remarkable new simulators and look forward to them achieving even greater success for our customers as they take their place in mines around the world. We encourage our customers to experience both new simulators first hand.” said Davis.  An important benefit of the PRO3 is its compatibility with 500+ existing Immersive Conversion Kits (interchangeable machine controls), custom lessons, scenarios and custom mine sites previously developed. This allows AES 2 and AES Series 2B customers to move up to a new PRO3 simulator and not have to replace their existing Conversion Kits and supporting systems.Early this year Exxaro’s Grootegeluk coal mine in Limpopo, South Africa, which operates the world’s largest coal beneficiation complex, again selected ThoroughTec Simulation as its simulator systems provider of choice after an exhaustive open tender supplier evaluation process.  ThoroughTec offers the range of Cybermine simulators. In keeping with Exxaro’s commitment to operational excellence and high safety standards, the Cybermine simulator will be an integral component of training procedures at the mine.  In addition to the Cybermine simulator (fitted with a six degree-of-freedom motion platform), Exxaro has purchased ‘plug-andplay’ interchangeable cabs to simulate both the Komatsu 730E haul truck and P&H 2300 electric shovel. Grootegeluk also opted to purchase the development of an ‘own-mineworld’ which will accurately replicate the topography and operating conditions of the open pit to provide trainee truck and shovel operators with the highest possible realism during training.  The simulated cab is the heart of ThoroughTec’s simulators – a realistic replica of the actual equipment, with fully functional simulated instruments and controls mounted on a high-end motion platform providing accurate motion perception cues. The cab is surrounded by a wide angle, high- resolution projection display system coupled with surround sound audio. Control of all training aspects is exercised in real time from a feature rich instructor station. The entire system is housed in a well-appointed, self-contained ISO container, which also facilitates ease of transport.Training in the YukonCanada’s Yukon Mine Training Association (YMTA) has introduced two new ThoroughTec simulators from for its training programs.  It has taken their training initiative to the next level with the introduction of two new Cybermine surface and underground simulator systems.  YMTA is a partnership between the Yukon’s mining- and resource-related industries and the First Nations. Its aim is to maximise employment opportunities emerging from the growth of the mining and related resource sectors in the North for First Nations and other Yukoners. The YMTA ensures that safety training is developed and delivered, meeting industry standards.  It chose four ‘plug-and-play’ interchangeable simulator cabs to cover four critical processes of drilling, digging, loading and hauling using four cabs to provide a complete training solution:  Komatsu PC1250 excavator, Caterpillar 773F truck, Sandvik DD420 drill jumbo, Sandvik EJC115LP LHD.  The two surface simulator cabs will operate on a six degree-of-freedom motion platform whilst the two underground simulator cabs operate on a three degree-of-freedom motion platform. Both are based on latest generation electric actuators which impart accurate self motion perception cues such as acceleration, braking and suspension effects.  ThoroughTec says Cybermine simulators offer a feature rich instructor station giving the instructor the ability to set up and modify a set of standard exercises, inject faults randomly or on command, view historical and real-time graphs of subsystem states, view the students’ operating violations as they occur and then replay exercises for after-action review and student debriefing. The instructor station is situated next to the simulated cab for one-on-one student/instructor interaction.  The jumbo simulator for instance, in training mode shows the students the correct drill placement position and drilling path. The student is then scored and assessed according to correct operational procedures. Historical reports can then be compared to assess a student’s progression.  The YMTA has big plans for simulators according to Tracy Thomas, Executive Director. “The simulators are going to be integrated into other programs, such as the Heavy Equipment Operator training program, in order to facilitate complete learning for the students.  Students will be able to graduate with classroom, simulator and then hands on training, which will increase their employability to the Yukon industry.”PresimulationAll the suppliers offer innovations and one from Fifth Dimension Technologies, known as 5DT, is the time-saving “slide-in, slide-out” technique to swop consoles in minutes. “Our simulators are connected with a single umbilical cord” says Martin Schehle, 5DT’s Mining Division Manager. “for instance: you uncouple the cord on a dozer sim, slide the console out, slide a dragline console in, and you are ready to train again in under three minutes”. 5DT also developed multi-screen technology, allowing an additional screen behind a dozer operator so that he can view the ripping process, or providing classroom view screens so that other trainees can participate in the simulator training session.Another innovation claimed by 5DT is threelevel training, a concept which was pioneered in military training and simulation. The first is computer based training or CBT, coupled to an advanced learning management system (LMS).  The CBT builds up a student’s knowledge. The second level is a pre-simulator. This is a scaleddown simulator which uses the same equipment console as the full simulator. It familiarises a student with the equipment controls.  The final stage is the full simulator, where the finer points of safety, productivity, maintenance and emergency response can be worked on. This sequential training means that a large number of students can participate in CBT and pre-simulator training at the same time and greatly reduces the amount of time students need on the full simulator. This dramatically reduces the training cost per student.  PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) and PT Kuala Pelabuhan Indonesia (KPI) recently purchased four new Doron simulators. These simulators will function as training tools in order to improve the competency levels of heavy equipment drivers throughout the complex.  “There are 350 additional drivers being recruited to support levee expansion and increase of our transport fleet. We purchased these four Doron units in an effort to improve the competency of our current drivers and train new drivers, with the aim of safe operation and reducing accidents while at work, as well as to ensure that drivers meet PTFI Licensing and Certification Standards,” explained PTFI Vice President – Central Shop and Transportation Steve Drake. The simulators are located at the Nemangkawi Mining Institute Training Facility.  “Doron simulators, which are replicas of the cabin of a truck, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology that simulate topographical and climate conditions found on our roads here. Depending on the training module, drivers may be subjected to various simulated environments, such as rain or fog, even how to manoeuvre on hills and dealing with traffic at intersections. The training modules help our drivers become more familiar with different field conditions and train them to handle these situations while out in the field.  As the training program progresses, we are able to create additional modules to enhance the training,” said KPI Superintendent – Training and Development Henky Risamasu. “New drivers will be required to log 100 hours of simulator time prior to 250 hours practical field training using the actual equipment. The Doron simulators will also be used as part of the annual refresher program for our heavy equipment drivers, all in an effort to improve safety at work and support production achievement.”Simulated sprayingIn cooperation with the Technical University (TU) of Dresden, Putzmeister has developed a simulation system based on open-source software to help operators be efficient when spraying underground support materials.  Visitors to the Putzmeister stand at this year´s Bauma had the opportunity to try the simulation of the Sika-PM 500 concrete spraying system on a large-format screen.  This Putzmeister in-house development is based on TU Dresden’s software framework SARTURIS. The modular software framework was specially developed to simulate the crosslinked subsystems of mobile working machines and vehicles in virtual surroundings. According to TU Dresden, the software provides improved methods for the development of more efficient, robust and flexible software systems for machine- and vehicle simulation.  The use of the simulation system during the development of the Sika-PM 500 allowed Putzmeister to take customer requirements into account and test them in early development stages. The system can easily be reconfigured to be used as a training simulator and will now be used in this way. It works through converting the signals of the original control unit of the Sika-PM 500 into CAN-bus signals, which are interpretable by the simulation software. The user controls the simulation model of the machine as well as the sprayed concrete. The results of the simulation are dynamically transmitted to the visualisation model, consisting of tunnel, Sika-PM 500 and sprayed concrete. In this way, an interactive simulation is created. According to Timo Penndorf, Putzmeister specialist for computation and simulation, who was involved in the development of the software, the distinctive feature of the simulation models is the fact that they consist of systems of differential equations which are calculated in real time. Penndorf points out that this improves the “degree of realness” considerably, for example as far as the afterbounce of the spraying arm is concerned. IM Rick Longstaff of Vista Training, a training solutions provider, says simulators are intended to provide convincing examples of many commonly encountered equipment operating situations. Even affordable PC-based simulators are very sophisticated. Technology advances allow simulators to be programmed to respond to a variety of human actions and reactions to ordinary and unexpected situations. For example, simulators used to train operators of off-highway heavy haul trucks, excavators or wheel loaders used in surface mines can familiarise new operators with all truck controls and operating techniques. The same simulator may visually create situations requiring emergency response action in a wide variety of situations. It may also be programmed to show the actual site where the equipment will be used to help orient new operators. And these techniques are accomplished in a totally safe environment and may be repeated until safe, efficient and cost-conscious operating practices become instinctive and automatic. Simulators can also be very effective in spotting operating errors and keeping records for follow-up corrective action. Doing the same thing in an actual piece of equipment may prove prohibitively expensive and generally involves potentially dangerous activities.Longstaff cautions that no one can possibly program into a simulator every single scenario that may occur in the real world. “Mines still need to have in place a comprehensive training curriculum, which may include traditional classroom and hands-on training or multimedia, computer-based training with integrated record keeping. “No simulator can prepare operators for every possible contingency. Ever changing work sites create new hazards as they develop. Increased site traffic and additions of new, less experienced operators offer un-programmable simulation situations. Unpredictable mechanical failures provide a host of unknowns when trying to prepare operator responses. Climatic changes often affect operating conditions in very unpredictable ways that technology may not be able to simulate. “Smart simulation development takes recognised hazards into consideration and programs the simulator to elicit correct hazard response. Simulation programming techniques also train equipment operators to get the most out of the machine without abusing it. Those two things alone can pay handsome dividends to equipment owners. Proper training that avoids a single accident with a multi-million dollar haul truck or mine excavator can pay for a room full of simulators. Teaching proper operating techniques to extend tyre and overall equipment life will dramatically decrease operating costs. These benefits alone help ensure continued employment by keeping the operation profitable and competitive. And if that’s not enough, well trained operators save lives.”Putting Longstaff’s ideas into practice, VISTA Training and Simlog, a pioneer and leader in the development of PC-based personal simulators for cost-effective heavy mining equipment operator training, recently announced the availability of SimLogic course manager software developed by VISTA Training exclusively for Simlog’s Mining Truck Personal Simulator. The development involved close collaboration between the two companies, SimLogic course manager software leverages the unique instructional design of Simlog’s Mining Truck Personal Simulator to serve as a computer-based training ‘front end’ to the hands-on training provided by the simulation software. This Simlog unit features a built-in instructional design for haul truck operator training that enables trainees to develop essential core skills by working through a series of simulation modules at their own pace, and without the need for instructor supervision. Each simulation module builds upon the skills learned in the previous one to emphasise best practices for both new and veteran operators alike. Another key feature of the simulation software’s instructional design is automatic measurement of key performance indicators pertaining to the productivity and quality of the trainee’s simulator-based work. This data can be used to assess the rate of skills development before trainees move on to train at the controls of real mining trucks. SimLogic course manager software provides a seamless front-end for this truck simulator that explains to trainees what they are about to experience in the simulator. It also interprets the performance data produced by the simulation software to help trainees to understand how to improve their performance. These reports can also be used by trainers to provide in-the-field coaching. SimLogic displays a list of available simulator sessions, descriptions of each session and the trainee’s status in the session, all in a convenient, easy-to-understand tabular view. When the trainee clicks on a lesson, SimLogic launches a set of computer-based training screens that introduce the lesson, and explain the task the trainee is about to perform in the simulator. SimLogic then launches a set of three simulator trials for each lesson.  SimLogic also captures the performance data from the Mining Truck Personal Simulator, and interprets the trainee’s simulation results to determine a score based on pre-established target values. A report is generated that includes the trainee’s score along with specific suggestions for improving performance in the form of helpful hints. This report also includes a set of notes that field trainers can use as coaching tools to help correct weak areas of the trainee’s performance.Northern Lights College in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada uses the combination of this Simlog Personal Simulator and VISTA Training’s SimLogic course manager to enhance the practical training component of its haul truck training program. “Simlog’s simulators are the system of choice in our region for mine training because it is an affordable option that allows students to learn important operator skills in a safe environment, and eliminates risks to physical safety and equipment damage,” explains Donna Merry, Workforce Training and Continuing Education Coordinator at Northern Lights College.  Northern Lights College trains mining truck operators for several mines in the region. The combination of computer-based training and simulator-based training has allowed the college to prepare students for roles as haul truck operators using learning activities the students enjoy, that directly support their understanding on the job, and that reduce the costs of training to the college’s clients. This approach uses less manpower, less fuel and tyre wear, and less risk to personnel and equipment.  “Now, when a student takes the driver’s seat in a real mining truck with the trainer alongside, the trainer can focus on higher level skills development because the fundamentals have been covered in our simulator lab.  Training at the mine can be based on areas showing need of improvement according to the student’s simulation results as measured by our Mining Truck Personal Simulator and reported by SimLogic,” adds Merry.Immersive forges on read more

The A$800 million X50 expansion of the Abbot Point Coal Terminal was named Bulk Materials Handling Facility of the Year by the Australian Bulk Handling Review at the recent awards ceremony held in Sydney on October 26. The expansion of the coal terminal to 50 Mt/y has transformed the mineral port into one of global importance, and is the largest port development project ever undertaken by a Port Authority in Queensland. North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), the port owner, commissioned Aurecon in joint venture with Hatch to complete all engineering design and tender procurement for the project. Other key OEMs, contractors and engineering groups involved in X50 include John Holland, MIE Holdings, Monadelphous, Laing O’Rourke, FAM Queensland and Sun Engineering.Aurecon Hatch also provided technical assistance and construction supervision as part of an integrated owner’s/engineer project management team and prepared and commissioned all control systems software. The expansion was a complex undertaking, comprising both onshore and offshore facilities and essentially duplicating the entire terminal and upgrading of much of the existing terminal, which had to be completed whilst maintaining the existing plant operation. Challenging conditions, including record breaking wet seasons and a volatile construction industry, which included severe labour shortages and spiralling material costs, were overcome with high quality, functional and economic design and experienced project management, ensuring the project was completed within budget and on schedule. Brad Fish, NQBP’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Despite the fast track delivery schedule we requested, and the volatility of the construction industry at the time, the exceptional commitment of the Aurecon Hatch design team, together with the contracting strategy adopted, ensured that almost A$700 million of construction contracts were awarded within just 11 months. Our close working relationship with the Aurecon Hatch team ensured the X50 expansion was completed to a high quality, within budget and essentially on schedule.”Safety was a high priority on the project and a pleasing outcome was that on two occasions more than 1,000,000 man hours were worked without a single lost time injury (LTI). The site also borders one of the world’s most environmentally sensitive regions, the Great Barrier Marine Park, as well as biodiverse wetlands. The design included many features that are world’s best practice for the minimisation of environmental impacts, such as smart control of water sprays to minimise water usage. read more

Laird’s mining remote control solutions focus on safety and efficiency. This global technology company will attend Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX) to raise awareness of its remote control and communication systems for mining as it enters the Australian market. Laird will demonstrate a wide variety of mining solutions including the SIAMnet Communication System. SIAMnet is a network of coaxial cables, antennas and Access Points which provide voice and data communication for underground mines. It features an U/G distributed antenna system, two-way voice and mobile data communication and high-speed Ethernet connections all while being an affordable, high capacity mining solution. “Laird has developed a reputation as an industry leader in mining solutions around the world,” said Richard Larivière, Product Manager, Mining for Laird. “As we expand into the Australian market, AIMEX presents an excellent opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities.”Laird will also demonstrate the Can-Bus mining remote control system and the Unity-M industrial remote control system. The Can-Bus system simplifies the installation of a remote control on any CAN-based vehicle. It connects directly to the vehicle’s computer network and is adaptable to any vehicle manufacturer with preset configurations. The Unity M system for EOT cranes provides safety and reliability. It features worldwide compatibility with a large choice of operating frequencies. Both systems are affordable solutions for mining and industrial applications. Laird’s wireless automation and control solutions have helped prevent serious injury while increasing efficiency and productivity by allowing operators to move to a safer, more efficient location. With more than 65 years of experience in radio frequency products, Laird is one of the largest global manufacturers of industrial radio remote controls. All products are backed by Laird’s worldwide service and support network, which provides service locations throughout the world, as well as a fully trained 24/7 service desk. read more

Northern Dynasty Minerals has announced that Anglo American Pebble LLC, a wholly owned US subsidiary of Anglo American has given notice under the Pebble limited partnership agreement that it is withdrawing from the Pebble copper project in Alaska. Northern Dynasty is a mineral exploration and development company based in Vancouver, Canada, which holds indirect interests in over 600 miles2 of mineral claims in southwest Alaska, USA. Northern Dynasty’s principal asset is the Pebble project, an advanced-stage initiative to develop one of the world’s most important mineral resources.Mark Cutifani, Chief Executive of Anglo American, said: “Despite our belief that Pebble is a deposit of rare magnitude and quality, we have taken the decision to withdraw following a thorough assessment of Anglo American’s extensive pipeline of long-dated project options. Our focus has been to prioritise capital to projects with the highest value and lowest risks within our portfolio, and reduce the capital required to sustain such projects during the pre-approval phases of development as part of a more effective, value-driven capital allocation model.”As of June 30, 2013, AA Pebble has funded $541 million of expenditure on the Pebble project. Following the AA Pebble withdrawal, PLP will proceed under the sole ownership of Northern Dynasty. In light of the parties’ shared desire to ensure an orderly exit, the detailed aspects of AA Pebble’s withdrawal from the Pebble project are being developed and implemented.Northern Dynasty CEO Ron Thiessen commented “Northern Dynasty will again own 100% of one of the world’s most important copper and gold resources and will have the benefit of $541 million worth of expenditures, which opens the door to a number of exciting possibilities for Northern Dynasty and its shareholders and the Pebble Project and its stakeholders. Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Partnership have both the expertise and resources necessary to advance the Pebble project.” read more

While South Africa’s Concor Opencast Mining positions itself as a mid-tier niche specialised mining contractor, its partnership with Downer Mining of Australia gives it the capability to tackle Tier 1 projects if need be. “Our combined effort will ensure that any joint operation has sufficient resourcing, infrastructure and systems to enable the delivery of a Tier 1 project,” Gert Buitendach, Contracts Director at Concor Opencast Mining, says.Downer Mining has extensive experience in running ultra-class mining equipment, comprising some of the largest in the world, such as 800 t class excavators and 300 t class dump trucks. “In principle what this agreement means is that, when there are projects of mutual interest that are suitable for both of our objectives, we will partner with Downer Mining,” Buitendach says.The Australian mining giant has also developed proprietary systems to ensure the efficient and effective utilisation of this ultra-class equipment. In terms of its own fleet, Concor Opencast Mining has access to Murray & Roberts Plant, a sister company.“We procure equipment for specific projects as contract requirements differ. Our fleet ranges from typical road milling machines through to 120 t excavators and 100 t dump trucks.” Concor Opencast Mining also has access to some of the largest mobile crushing trains in the country, giving it the capability to carry out significant crushing projects and crush to the required specification.Concor Opencast Mining has operations in both soft- and hard-rock mining, from coal to platinum and iron ore. “We have experience in the full commodity spectrum. We have also diversified into certain value-added mining requirements by offering crushing solutions, drawing on the construction infrastructure we have at our disposal.”Having full access to the group resources of Murray & Roberts itself gives Concor Opencast Mining a distinct advantage. “We have a cross-functional platform in terms of underground mining, civils, infrastructure and engineering. We are part of a diversified group and have a significant knowledge base to draw upon.“We are able to offer the appropriate client and project the option of transitioning from an opencast operation to underground mining. This is particularly suited to the platinum sector, where operations commence with opencast mining and progress to underground decline development. We can offer a combined solution.”Concor Opencast Mining is also diversifying into tailings dam construction, such as a project it is undertaking for a large platinum mine in Limpopo. “We are constructing an impoundment wall. This does not only involve bulk volume placement, but also incorporates detailed compaction placement for the interface layer. This is one of the specialised areas we are diversifying into,” Buitendach says.Concor Opencast Mining has SABS and MQA accreditation as an ISO 9001 training provider, which means it is able to deliver competent operators. Murray & Roberts Plant also has ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 accreditation. “This ensures that our operations are safe and controlled, as well as ultimately delivering reliable equipment in terms of both operation and maintenance.”Buitendach adds that Concor Opencast Mining also effectively implements Murray & Roberts Group initiatives such as its STOP.THINK.ACT 24/7 health and safety campaign and its Visible Felt Leadership programme. “Safe production is the ultimate outcome that we need to deliver. If it is unsafe in any aspect, then it is not sustainable,” Buitendach concludes. read more

Weir Minerals Floway Pumps has introduced the new Floway® VTSP- vertical turbine slurry pump – it says “addressing the industry demand for a longer lasting, abrasives solids handling vertical turbine pump.” Following several years of design innovation, research and testing, the VTSP has been demonstrated to last four times longer in solids handling services when compared and tested with the Floway vertical turbine pump bearing assembly. The patented VTSP bearing design allows for continuous operation in services with a maximum solid content of 10% by weight and excursions of 20% by weight during temporary upset conditions. This design results in a longer mean time between required maintenance and an overall reduction in the customer’s total operational costs.“We listened to our customers when they expressed the need for an abrasives solids handling vertical turbine pump which would last longer than the available designs in the market today,” said Barry Cockerham, Managing Director of Weir Minerals Floway Pumps in Fresno, California. “We responded with the VTSP which we believe will provide extended life while maintaining the highest product quality.”“Wear life is critical in many pump applications and the existing technology was not producing acceptable results”, said Daniel Boldt, Product Engineering Manager at Weir Minerals Floway Pumps. “Due to the demanding nature of abrasive services, design innovation was required to realise a significant improvement in wear life. After extensive design work and both in-house and field testing, the new VTSP product line demonstrated a notable advantage over traditional vertical turbine designs.” Weir Minerals Floway Pumps has supplied pumps and processing products for the minerals industry for over 80 years. “We are dedicated to engineering, manufacturing and servicing high quality, long lasting products such as the VTSP. In designing this product line, our research and design teams took wear life, hydraulic performance and overall quality into consideration. The Weir Minerals Floway Pumps engineering teams are continuously searching for design solutions to increase efficiency and wear life in order to meet the rigorous demands of our customers.” read more

The first new rare earths mine outside China to recover heavy rare earth elements is getting closer to production. Northern Minerals Ltd has signed a memorandum of understanding with a Chinese company to build a pilot plant for its Browns Range mine located in northern Western Australia.·        Sinosteel Equipment & Engineering Co (Sinosteel MECC) selected as EPC contractor for Browns Range pilot plant ·        Non-binding MoU between Northern Minerals and Sinosteel MECC signed in Beijing·        As part of the MoU, Sinosteel MECC has agreed to defer 20% of payments for 24 months, with a right to convert into Northern Minerals Ordinary shares. Sinosteel MECC has been selected as the EPC contractor for the 60,000 t/y Browns Range pilot plant. The company plans to construct the plant modules in China then ship them to the site for installation. The pilot plant was approved in September.The contract size for the plant is estimated at ~A$60 million, including the following: Pilot plant process facilities (beneficiation and hydrometallurgical process plants) – A$28 million; Mining and associated infrastructure (including tailings storage facility, camp, water supply, airstrip) – A$22 million; and Commissioning/Working Capital requirements – A$10 million. Under the MoU, Sinosteel MECC has agreed to defer payments totalling A$12 million for a period of 24 months. Alternatively, Sinosteel MECC has the right, at its election, within nine months of practical completion, to convert the deferred payment amount into Ordinary Northern Minerals’ shares. Northern Minerals’ Managing Director George Bauk welcomed a team with the calibre of Sinosteel MECC to the Browns Range Project, acknowledging it as a strong endorsement of the company’s vision. “We are excited to be partnering with a strong party such as Sinosteel MECC. The final pieces in the business plan are coming together as we move towards a final investment decision.” The picture shows Northern Minerals Managing Director, George Bauk and Sinosteel MECC General Manager, Wang Jian, signing the MoU in Beijing read more

Superior Industries Inc, the US-based manufacturer and global supplier of bulk material processing and handling systems, has manufactured the first ever 64 m road-portable telescoping radial stacking conveyor. This TeleStacker® Conveyor, designed and built for a frac sand operation in Texas, is the longest one of its kind ever built.The conveyor has a stockpiling capacity of 363,000 t, 30% more than any other telescoping conveyor on the market. According to Superior, the company’s solution is less than half the cost of a fixed or stationary tripper conveyor with the same capacity. In addition to high capacity frac sand applications, operations that may benefit from a longer unit include sites that need to build inventory with large tonnage stockpiles and shipload applications. A 64 m telescopic conveyor will fill a vessel hold more completely than shorter models. read more

du rietzlowenRhein Neckar Lowen ← Previous Story Olafur Stefansson criticizes Nikolaj Markussen: “You should have stayed in Europe” Next Story → TRANSFER BOMB: Katarina Bulatovic to Gyor! Rhein-Neckar Lowen are satisfied with the Swede Kim Ekdahl du Rietz and have therefore offered him a new contract which was accepted by Kim. The new contract means that he is staying in Mannheim until 30 June 2015. The 23-year old du Rietz had other offers as well, but rejected them all, wishing to stay with the “Lions” read more

← Previous Story W19 EURO 2013: Scandi girls in TOP form Next Story → WISLA TV: Wisla Plock begins preparation for Montpellier Ivano Balic won’t play in Belarus Meshkov Brest in the upcoming season. Wednesday was deadline for decision of the handball “Mozzart”, when he refused current offer from Brest. Belarus team who already signed playmaker with international background, David Spiler, won’t negotiate with legendary player in the future:– We closed this topic – said for PRESSBALL.bl Meshkov’s representative Anatoly Petrukovich.Some speculations talked about 300.000 EUR season salary which was Balic’s wish, but obviosly something went wrong.Media connected Balic with Fuchse Berlin and RK Vardar Skopje before, but both teams withdrew their interest.Where gonna play Ivano Balic in the upcoming season? Belarushandball transfersIvano BalicMeshkov Brest read more

8.TuS N-Lübbecke27:29-34 10.TBV Lemgo25:31-30 9.TSV Hannover-Burgdorf26:30-47 1.THW Kiel49:7+164 4.HSV Handball44:10+89 5.Füchse Berlin38:18+72 6.MT Melsungen34:22+31 ← Previous Story FC Barcelona easily over Aalborg at TOP 8! Next Story → MACEDONIAN REVOLUTION: Vardar and Metalurg at TOP 8! 13.TSV GWD Minden20:34-49 18.TV Emsdetten7:49-177 dkb bundesligaHBW Balingen 7.SC Magdeburg31:25+31 12.FRISCH AUF! Göppingen21:35-15 HBW Balingen are in the serious situation linked with their status at DKB Bundesliga. Team who was stabile member of the German handball elite, lost the match in Gummersbach 25:24 and six matches until the end of the season, staying “under the line” with four points less than the biggest rival in relegation battle – Bergischer…STANDINGS: 14.VfL Gummersbach20:34-63 15.Bergischer HC17:39-76 3.SG Flensburg-Handewitt46:10+154 2.Rhein-Neckar Löwen47:9+181 11.HSG Wetzlar23:31-23 16.HBW Balingen-Weilstetten14:42-72 17.ThSV Eisenach11:45-136 read more

handball transfersrobert weberSC Magdeburg ← Previous Story Russian girls to lose Olympic place? Next Story → Serbs want further discussion about SEHA One of the best and most constistent goalscorer of the DKB Bundesliga in previous 5-6 years, Austrian right wing Robert Weber committed his future with his first German team – SC Magdeburg. The 30 years-old right wing extended current contract until 2019.He has signed deal until summer 2017. Weber came to Magdeburg in 2009. Since then he is vital part of the team from GETEC Arena. read more

The Women’s U 19 EHF EURO 2017 coming to the final stage in Slovenia. The best four teams are known. Denmark against Russia will play at semi-final, as well as Hungary and France. Match will be played at “Zlatorog” hall in Celje, famous handball venue of RK Celje Pivovarna Lasko.France beat Montenegro 28:18 in direct battle for the placement among four best teams.Semi-finals will be played on Friday, while final day is scheduled for Sunday. ← Previous Story Aalborg Handball sign Croatian youngstar Lovro Jotic Next Story → Arthur Patrianova will try to save career at S.L Benfica read more

THE GOVERNMENT has insisted the EU-IMF Troika has no unease about the amounts the government claims to have saved under the Croke Park deal, following newspaper reports suggesting Ireland’s funders had ‘serious misgivings’ about the savings claimed.In a statement this lunchtime the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform said the Troika had “never expressed concern in respect of the  Croke Park savings”.This was “a fact that we have confirmed with the Troika today”, the statement added.The statement followed a report in today’s Irish Times which claimed figures from the European Commission, European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund were becoming concerned at the scale of the savings being achieved.However, Stephen Collins’ article did not report any concerns that the savings reported under the deal – of some €920 million in its second year, and €1.5 billion in total.The Department of Public Expenditure statement also elaborated on the guidelines mentioned by Grant Thornton in its independent review of the savings achieved.The auditors’ report cited Department of Finance guidelines which suggested that non-pay savings should be estimated as equivalent to 40 per cent of the salaries of staff who have been laid off.“The guidelines referred to by Grant Thornton are Regulatory Impact Assessment guidelines which were published in 2009 prior to the Croke Park Agreement, and have nothing to do with the calculation of Croke Park savings,” the statement said.The statement said Grant Thornton had not discussed the approach of other departments in making those calculations, and it was a “total misrepresentation of the report” to suggest that departments other than the Department of Agriculture had used the 40 per cent method.External accountants are engaged by the Implementation Body to independently evaluate samples of savings reported. They have reported on each occasion that they are satisfied with the reported savings.In their report earlier this year Grant Thornton made clear that they were satisfied with the savings they examined including those of the Department of Agriculture. They concluded “the declared savings reported by management in each of the four projects were found to be reasonable estimates”.The Department said they believed the auditors had spoken to Fine Gael backbencher Eoghan Murphy, whose concerns about potential overstatements led to an article in yesterday’s Sunday Independent, “and confirmed that they were satisfied with all the savings reported”.“There is no conclusion in their report that savings were overestimated,” the statement affirmed.Murphy is one of eight Fine Gael TDs to have today published a newspaper piece in which they call on the government not to treat allowances and increments as being covered under the Croke Park deal, and to cut them in the next Budget.Read: Fine Gael TDs challenge Government stance on Croke ParkMore: Government insists Croke Park savings are not overstated read more

The report states that of the 28 complaints made by prisoners over the course of one year – 13 related to alleged assaults by prison officers – the investigations carried out by prison authorities were “flawed… incomplete and could not be said to accord with best practice”.In a significant number of cases, having made a complaint, prisoners then signed a form stating that they did not wish to proceed further with the complaint.  I am satisfied from my investigations that threats are made to prisoners and inducements are offered in order that they would not make complaints in the first instance or, if having made them, in order that such complaints would be withdrawn.The report notes that of the four yards available for exercise, one has been taken out of commission because of the quantity of drugs and contraband being thrown into the yard from outside the prison.Almost 70 per cent of all prisoners have used illegal substances before coming into St Patrick’s, most often alcohol, benzodiazepines and hash.Minister for Justice Alan Shatter said the report was “quite shocking”.“Neither I nor the Government will tolerate this type of abuse,” he said. “I have instructed the Director General of the Irish Prison Service to ensure that everything possible is done to address these issues within the timeframes set by the Inspector, if not before then”.The institution has been repeatedly criticised since 1985 when TK Whitaker, the then-head of a committee of enquiry into the penal system, recommended that it should be closed as soon as possible.Just over 200 prisoners are currently held in St Patrick’s, all of whom are between the ages of 16 and 21. The Government has said it will move all 16 and 17 years olds out of the prison over the next two years.Judge Michael Reilly said that the government’s plan to end the detention of children aged 16 and 17 in the institution by May 2014 needs to be revisited and needs to be implemented “as a matter of urgency”.The prison has been strongly criticised by the UN Committee against Torture in the past, as well as the UN Commitee on the Rights of the Child, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights and the European Commitee on Social Rights.Read the full report by the Inspector of Prisons here > Read: Funding secured to end detention of children in adult prison > A REPORT BY the Inspector of Prisons has found systematic violation of the human rights of the teenagers and young people being held in St Patrick’s Institution in Dublin.Judge Michael Reilly found excessive and unrecorded use of force by staff against prisoners, forced stripping of clothes from the prisoners, excessive punishment, including denying children family visits, and bullying and intimidation of young and vulnerable inmates by some staff.The report says that weak management, the culture in the prison, the prevalence of drugs and the culture in the prison means it no longer provides safe, secure and humane custody.The Irish Penal Reform Trust said the problems within the institution are so ingrained that it is may not be viable to keep it open.“The depiction of terrified boys and young men afraid to report assaults that they have suffered is chilling,” said Liam Herrick, the executive director of the IPRT.That this could happen in the 21st century to children and young people anywhere is shocking. That it could happen in Ireland, with all that we know about institutional abuse and the impact it has on children, is an absolute national disgrace.Judge Michael Reilly made a number of unannounced visits to St Patrick’s over a period of months to compile the report. He also spoke with inmates, prison officers, and many people with an interest and knowledge of the institution. He has in the past issued a number of warnings about the conditions there.Judge Reilly criticised the condition the prisoners are held in:On many of my visits to the prison many of the cells were dirty, needed painting and did not have adequate furniture. Many other areas were dirty, unhygenic and with broken equipment. On a number of my visits cells in the Unit were cold. Some had broken windows. I recorded temperatures of 16 degrees Celsius. read more

THE BLOODSHOT AND bleary eye of the world’s media was turned to South Africa this morning for Nelson Mandela’s memorial service.It was an emotional occasion, as world leaders lined up to pay tribute to Mandela in front of a crowd of thousands.So what music would you choose to accompany a montage of weeping South Africans? Perhaps some music from South Africa?Or just Africa, by Toto: via UproxxSouth Africans honour “giant of history”, Madiba>PHOTO: Barack Obama shakes hands with Cuban president Raul Castro> Source: Dorsey ShawUnsurprisingly, the network has come under fire for their decision to bless the rains down in Africa: read more

THE DEPARTMENT OF Education has said that under the new Junior Certificate reforms the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment are currently developing a new short course on relationships and sexuality education.The department confirmed to TheJournal.ie, that as part of the reforms the “approach to relationships and sexuality education is changing at junior cycle” adding that a new short course as part of Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) will be delivered in September 2014.It will also involve an increase in the time allocation for SPHE at Junior Cycle from 60 to 100 hours.OnlineIn addition to these changes, a new short course will also be available in Digital Media Literacy where a student’s learning activity would include “development of a charter of online rights and responsibilities that define acceptable use of digital technologies in the school”.While the department states that SPHE and Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) deal with sexual education issues such as “sexting” already, changes are being made to the current course.The department stated that the accessing of pornography on mobiles phone is “primarily an issue for parents in the first instance, as parents are the primary educators of their children,” but said schools can complement the role of parents and help ensure that children have the essential “life skills” that will enable them to address a range of difficult issues – “including knowing what is appropriate and what is inappropriate, and can include personal safety, bullying, and substance use,” they said.Social, Personal and Health EducationThey added that this is something that is addressed at both SPHE and RSE level.The changes are being brought about under the new ‘Well-being’ principle which is underpinned in the new reforms, says the department.The aim is the student experience will “contribute to their physical, mental, emotional and social well-being and resilience. Learning takes place in a climate focused on collective well-being of school, community and society”.They stated that “young people face a range of challenges and opportunities both within and outside of school” involving issues relating to relationships and sexuality but may also encompass other important areas such as substance use, bullying and mental health.“Under the new Junior Cycle Framework, pupils will be provided with opportunities to acquire the relevant skills of ‘managing myself’, ‘staying well’, and ‘communicating’. One element of ‘staying well’ is being responsible, safe and ethical in using digital technology,” they said. The development of these skills aims to enable pupils to address the challenges they face and adapt their skills to different contexts.As part of the new Junior Cycle Framework, schools will be given the flexibility to determine how best to ensure that their pupils fulfill the principles, statements of learning and skills.Schools may therefore choose to implement the new short course in SPHE that is being developed by the NCCA, or they may choose to continue to use existing courses or other approaches.New SPHE lesson plans on personal safety for junior cycle students will be rolled out to schools, through in-service training for relevant teachers, in the coming months.Anti-bullyingThrough these lesson plans students are afforded an opportunity to examine their attitudes and values and are reminded of good online safety practices, the department said in a statement.New lesson plans on personal safety are also currently being developed for senior cycle SPHE. These will build on the junior cycle lesson plans but will also include information that is age appropriate to senior cycle students.It is envisaged that these lesson plans will be available for the start of the next school year.Revisions are also being made to the Child Abuse Prevention Programme (CAPP) or Stay Safe programme. The current programme is delivered to primary school children from Junior Infants through to 6th class and is there to enhance children’s self-protective skills by participation in lessons on safe and unsafe situations, bullying, inappropriate touch, secrets, telling and stranger danger.The revised programme will address new forms of risk, including cyber bullying and incorporate new research and best practice in the area of safeguarding children as well as developments in terms of policies, provision and curriculum.As part of the updating of the Stay Safe programme, feedback is currently being invited from parents and teachers to identify issues that they would like to see included in the revised programme.Read: Key questions on new Junior Cycle Student Award ‘unanswered’>Read: 7 things the new name for the Junior Cert ACTUALLY sounds like> read more

CHILDREN’S MINISTER FRANCES Fitzgerald says it’s “not a matter of banning” junk food in schools after reports that a third of secondary schools are selling sweets and fizzy drinks.Speaking to reporters in Dublin today, the minister said that she saw the promotion of healthy food as a priority within the education system but added that there are industry considerations that have to be acknowledged.Her comments follow a report in The Sunday Times at the weekend which claimed that the Department of Education was reluctant to ban vending machines in school because of the revenue they raise.“Clearly some schools have entered into contracts with various firms and so the contents of these machines are what they are,” she said. “But obviously I would be saying to schools that we should be of moving in the direction of healthy food in schools.”“I don’t think it’s a question of banning but more of moving in that direction of healthy food,” she added.The minister was also asked about reports from the UK that a 29-year-old man died in an incident that is being linked to neknominations.South Wales police say they are investigating the death of the man in Rumney in the early hours of yesterday with a spokesperson for the force saying that they have received information about the controversial drinking game.Fitzgerald again reiterated that she encouraged young people in particular to refrain from taking part.“It’s very clear that this is a game that people might have thought when it started out that it was innocent but actually has potentially lethal consequences,” shes said.“Young people have to be alert to the dangers of these social crazes really.”Read: Ireland is eating more fast food as waistlines continue to grow…and grow >Read: 31 per cent of teens eat “a lot” of junk food > read more