Finally, the adoption of innovation through the development and implementation of the Semi-Automated Shaft Excavator (S100), by Redpath Deilmann. This system features an excavator arm mounted centrally beneath the working platform within a vertical shaft - it is remotely operated from surface level. Equipped with a range of interchangeable tool attachments, it enables the simultaneous execution of multiple tasks, improving efficiency and overall productivity. Collaboration remains a key pillar across the group and various global technical workshops across its core disciplines, including development, shaft sinking, raiseboring, mechanised mining, and other specialised services are undertaken. These workshops provide structured forums bringing together technical experts, project leaders, and operational teams from across the business to share best practices, review lessons learned, and present emerging methodologies and technological innovations. Training and skills development “Our people remain our most important asset and as such we continue to invest in development and training of our employees. This includes the knowledge transfer that is undertaken from our Australian fellow employees who are coaching and mentoring our local employees on site. Further to this we are currently developing portable training capabilities such that training is undertaken onsite rather than at a centralised training facility.
Mogalakwena Sandsloot Underground Project support installation.
an inclination of −8° to reach the underlying basalt rock. “For an ore body located below 80 m deep desert, we deployed a technology similar to that used to develop the London Underground Railway System. While this technology
may not be new, it has never been used before in unconsolidated sand or in a decline. The project was an unprecedented world first at 6.1 m in diameter by 473 m in length.” A further technical innovation relates to an early warning detection
This also ensures that training can be accessed as often as is necessary. To support this, the company is investing in resources and advanced hardware
system to alert the Raisebore Operator of an imminent in-hole equipment failure. “Essentially, failure to detect
incorporating augmented reality. This enables specialist trainers to deliver highly realistic, life- like simulated training in a safe environment, thereby eliminating the risk of injury or damage to equipment.” Competency assessments will be
We continue to attract key individuals aligned to our growth strategy, supported by our Guidelines for Success, ensuring we are well positioned to continue serving our clients effectively.
cracks or disconnects in the stem, stabilisers, drill string, or float box can lead to catastrophic equipment loss. The Drill String Pressure Pump provides operators with immediate warning of potential faults, enabling rapid intervention to prevent reamer or drill string separation. Once a fault is identified, corrective action can be taken to minimise risk. The system’s effectiveness was demonstrated during a recent project in Obuasi, Ghana, where it successfully detected a cracked stabiliser in-hole.”
conducted electronically using simulators and handheld devices, ensuring a more efficient evaluation processes. “Over the next two years, this technology will be tailored specifically to Redpath Africa Limited's suite of trackless equipment, as well as shaft sinking and raiseboring operations,” concludes Nel. n
The Redpath Group's service offering • Redpath is a full-service underground mining contracting and engineering firm, a “one stop shop” to clients in every major mining market around the world. • The company offers a complete range of underground mining services, including mine development, mass excavation, shaft sinking, production mining, raiseboring, mechanised raise mining, underground construction, mechanical excavation, production drilling and speciality services. • The Redpath Group Philosophy makes a commitment to: • provide a level of service to the mining industry which will exceed • normally accepted standards; • create a desire in the industry for our continuing services; • provide scope and challenge for our employees; • control growth in order to maintain a high calibre of service to the industry. This philosophy has served Redpath well since 1962, and it will continue to support our belief that, at Redpath, “Challenge is an important part of life.”
May 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 23
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