MINING NEWS
Industry support advances rock engineering research in SA
Royal Tyres and Ascenso join forces to reshape mining tyre solutions across Southern Africa
engineering research in South Africa has focused on the country’s gold mines. The layout challenges of the shallow mines in the Bushveld Complex for platinum group metals (PGMs), chromium and vanadium have largely been ignored. This Research Chair will therefore enable the Department’s research activities to be expanded to the Bushveld Complex and the Great Zimbabwe Dyke with the objective of advancing the country’s economy. Speaking on behalf of Prof Francis Petersen, the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Wynand Steyn, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Informa on Technology, expressed his appreciation to Valterra Platinum for its valued support. “This Research Chair is an important vehicle to enable fundamental rock engineering research on the layouts and rock types found in these mines.” n
The support of Valterra Platinum to the University of Pretoria’s rock engineering research is enabling the Department of Mining Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Informa on Technology to strengthen its reputation as an international leader in this field and as a trusted partner in advancing knowledge that serves society. The Valterra Platinum Chair in Rock Engineering for the Bushveld Complex and Great Zimbabwe Dyke will provide funding for an initial period of three years for research in this field. The event was a celebrated on of the spirit of collaboration between industry and academia. It is anticipated to become a catalyst for groundbreaking discoveries, stronger partnerships and las ng impact that can improve mining safety, support economic growth and contribute to a more sustainable future in the southern African region. Traditionally, most of the rock
Akshay Patel, CEO, Royal Tyres.
Royal Tyres, the Durban-based South African tyre business with 87 years in the Southern African market, has entered a strategic partnership with Ascenso, the Indian-headquartered global tyre manufacturer, which will bring international mining tyre technology and engineering capability closer to customers across Southern Africa. With Ascenso’s giant ROTR range being launched ahead of Electra Mining Africa 2026, both companies will showcase their collaboration to mining and industrial customers. Founded in 2019 by the Mahansaria Group, Ascenso’s tyres are sold in more than 100 countries. Ascenso is now entering the high- performance mining segment with a full range designed for both underground and surface mining applications, covering large and ultra large all-steel radial OTR tyres. This expansion is backed by an investment exceeding US$100 million and a state- of-the-art manufacturing facility in India, reflecting Ascenso’s long-term commitment to the global OTR and mining market. For mining and industrial operators in the region, the partnership means greater access to global tyre expertise while benefiting from the local knowledge and support of an established regional business. Royal Tyres’ understanding of the operating conditions and requirements of the Southern African mining sector will complement Ascenso’s international product and engineering capabilities. “Ascenso brings significant global expertise in tyre development and engineering, while Royal Tyres understands the market, customers and operating environment in Southern Africa. Together, we can offer customers a stronger proposition backed by both international capability and local support,” says Akshay Patel, CEO, Royal Tyres. n
Annea Colliery delivers multi-million-rand water and sanitation infrastructure to communities
delivered infrastructure that will make a meaningful and lasting difference to households, providing them with clean, reliable water and improving access to essential sanitation services.” n
Thungela’s Annea Colliery completed two water and sanitation infrastructure projects benefiting rural communities within the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, valued at more than R6.5 million. The projects form part of Annea’s Social and Labour Plan. Implemented in a phased approach, these projects will go a long way in improving access to clean and reliable water for residents in the municipality. Edrich Welthagen, general manager at Annea Colliery, said: “Access to proper sanitation is fundamental to the dignity, health and overall wellbeing of communities. This project responds directly to needs identified through consultation with residents and the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality as part of its Integrated Development Plan. We are pleased to have
6 MODERN MINING www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | OCTOBER 2026
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