Epiroc South Africa, a global leader in productivity solutions for mining, infrastructure, and natural resources, recently completed the delivery of five out of six FlexiROC D65 drilling machines to QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine, a key customer. The sixth surface drill rig is expected to be delivered in Q4 2024.
QKR Mineral Holdings, primarily engaged in gold mining, owns 92.5% of the Navachab open-pit gold mine in Namibia's Erongo region. Initially handling drilling and blasting in-house, Navachab transitioned to a contractor business model before returning to an owner-drilling operation. Since the shift to contractor drilling in 2014, Epiroc has provided maintenance and on-site contract support to Navachab.
The strategic decision by Navachab to revert to owner drilling, prompted by an optimisation study conducted in Q3 2023, marks a significant shift in their operations. The positive outlook on gold and expected sustainable growth in Navachab's surface operations and proposed underground projects influenced this decision. With a projected Life of Mine (LOM) extending beyond 2030, Navachab's operation is deemed highly stable, leading the company to invest in the necessary equipment for long-term business sustainability.
The FlexiROC D65 surface drill rig, renowned for its ruggedness and efficiency, is a testament to Epiroc's commitment to reliability. Designed for Down-the-hole (DTH) drilling in mining and large quarrying applications, it has earned a reputation for premium quality and high dependability, ensuring uninterrupted operations for our esteemed customers.
To support the customer's FlexiROC D65 machines, Epiroc offers a comprehensive service scope, including a Vendor Managed Inventory Agreement (VMI) with Particle-Size Distribution (PSD) site support. Riaan Rust, Country Manager at Epiroc Namibia, commends the collaborative effort of the Epiroc surface team and their Namibian counterparts in delivering outstanding product and service support.
In accordance with Epiroc's customer-centric approach, operator and technician training and safety are prioritised. Navachab will receive two weeks of operator training and one week of technical training for each delivered machine.
George Botshiwe, Managing Director of Navachab, emphasises the strategic importance of acquiring the FlexiROC D65 drill rigs to de-risk operations and ensure sustainability. He believes the decision, based on cost analysis and productivity considerations, will enhance overall productivity at the mine. Rust concludes by expressing Epiroc's pride in the longstanding partnership with Navachab and appreciation for their continued trust in delivering premium equipment to optimise mining operations.
