CEN DEC
25
MINING
INTO AFRICA
Redpath SA Managing Director,
Ockert
Douglas,
says that the company is making use
of the state-of-the-art Redbore 90 raise drill in
order to undertake the highly challenging task.
“A reamer head of the required diameter is then attached to the drill string and raised back
towards the machine. The drill cuttings from the reamer head fall to the floor of the lower
level. The finished raise has smooth walls and does not require rock bolting or other forms of
ground support,” Ockert adds.
In order to ensure optimal levels of efficiency, Michael says that highly qualified Redpath
Canada personnel have been sent to South Africa to train local Redpath staff on all aspects
related to the systems and technology of the raise drill.
He continues: “This ensures that Redpath SA is able to provide clients making use of system
with a comprehensive and all inclusive service offering, which combines the raise boring
process with sinking and development functions. Redpath SA is taking full responsibility for
this holistic solution, which eliminates the risk of errors and consequent downtime as a result
of miscommunication when numerous contractors are involved.”
The first unit of Redbore 90 raise drill was developed by Redpath Canada in 2011, with a
second model manufactured in 2012. Following unprecedented success at mining projects
worldwide, a third Redbore 90 machine is currently going through the final stages of
manufacture and is expected to be fully complete and ready for operation by December 2013.
the raise
boring market
