In a significant development for the mining industry, Master Drilling CEO Danie Pretorius emphasized the increasing importance of mechanical cutting as a transformative approach for future mining operations. This insight was shared during a detailed discussion with Mining Weekly’s Martin Creamer, following the Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed company’s announcement of its exceptional 2023 full-year results, which boasted an unprecedented safety record and the largest order book to date.
Master Drilling, headquartered in Fochville, Gauteng, is pioneering advancements in rock boring and exploration drilling across a global footprint that spans from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Peru, and from Canada to Australia, among other locations. The company’s focus on mechanical cutting is poised to revolutionize how mining companies reach deeper reserves more efficiently and safely.
Pretorius outlined the benefits of mechanical cutting, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce the time required to access deep underground reserves. This approach addresses the mining industry’s challenge of depleting surface-level reserves and the need for innovative solutions to access deeper, more difficult-to-reach resources. Mechanical cutting, according to Pretorius, will facilitate quicker project timelines, offering a more attractive investment proposition by shortening the wait for dividends and cash flows from mining projects.
Master Drilling’s commitment to mechanical cutting is evidenced by its ongoing development of several cutting-edge systems. These include the mechanical shaft boring system (SBS) prototype, the MTB mobile tunnel borer tested at the Mogalakwena platinum mine, and a reef-cutting system, among others. These innovations are central to Master Drilling’s strategy to offer mining operations a suite of tools that promise to revolutionize mine development and, potentially, the very nature of mining itself.
Pretorius also touched on the environmental and safety advantages of transitioning away from traditional explosives-based mining towards mechanical cutting. He suggested that while the complete replacement of blasting might not occur within the next decade, the industry is moving in that direction, motivated by the benefits of reduced rock damage, improved safety, and minimized environmental impact.
Master Drilling’s role in rapidly and cost-effectively boring large shafts, as demonstrated in its work for Northam Platinum, showcases the practical and financial advantages of mechanical cutting. This method not only accelerates project timelines but also introduces flexibility in capital expenditure, allowing for adjustments based on market conditions.
While the exploration drilling aspect of Master Drilling’s business currently represents a smaller fraction of its overall operations, there is potential for growth, especially outside South Africa. Pretorius sees Africa, along with Europe and India, as key markets for expansion, noting the increasing interest from major mining companies in African ventures.
Regarding South Africa’s mining future, Pretorius expressed a pragmatic view, acknowledging the limited growth prospects within the country despite a loyal client base. He also discussed the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations influencing Master Drilling’s operations, highlighting ongoing efforts to measure and reduce carbon emissions in line with mining clients’ ESG strategies.
Master Drilling continues to innovate in the field of robotic drilling, with recent developments including the completion and testing of a robotic surface drilling machine, and the commencement of production with an underground variant. The company’s focus on safety, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility, combined with a robust financial performance and strategic investments in cutting-edge technology, positions Master Drilling at the forefront of mining innovation, ready to address the industry’s future challenges and opportunities.
Source: Mining Weekly
