Sasol, the renowned JSE-listed energy conglomerate, intends to operationalize a new destoning unit by late 2025 or early 2026. This move promises to significantly improve the coal quality from its mines.
This announcement came during a pivotal investor site visit in Secunda on September 21. During this meeting, Hermann Wenhold, senior vice president of Sasol Mining, emphasized the importance of this innovative unit. He remarked, “The escalation in the price of gas has been a concern for us, especially as we aim to provide for the masses. With the addition of this unit, we’re striving to make gas an accessible commodity for everyone.”
While the financial requirements for this venture will be determined upon the final investment verdict, there’s optimism surrounding the project’s environmental permit, anticipated by mid-next year.
According to a report by Mining Weekly, Wenhold further detailed that a comprehensive feasibility assessment of the destoning unit wrapped up in August. This initiative is one among several aimed at bolstering coal quality. Immediate goals include enhancing the operational efficiency of continuous miners, meticulous contamination measurements, and reduction of roof and floor cutting.
In an age where quality assurance is paramount, Sasol’s concerted efforts reflect its commitment to excellence. The company envisions a future where an integrated quality management center would bolster short-term quality management.
One of the day’s highlights was Sasol’s ambition to secure premium-quality coal between 2024 and 2026. Various coal sources are under rigorous evaluation to guarantee they fulfill Sasol’s stringent criteria. Wenhold candidly discussed the impending cessation of the Isibonelo supply in 2025, accentuating the need for additional external purchases and short-term contracts for 2026.
Sasol is pondering over several alternatives to bridge the forthcoming supply gap. Establishing the Alexander Colliery, estimated to supply around four to five million tonnes annually, is one promising option. Another viable route is the rerouting of export coal from Thubelisha colliery to Sasol’s synthetic oil operations. “We aim to finalize our decision by the third quarter of 2024, considering logistical constraints and the most economically viable coal supply options,” Wenhold added.
Peering into the future, for the 2023 fiscal year, the company’s primary objective is to sustain momentum. This entails ensuring a maintained coal stockpile, with a targeted 5% productivity enhancement in Secunda collieries during the latter half of the year.
The concept of “walk-on walk-off” sections was introduced as a technique to amplify cutting time. This approach minimizes waiting time by employing additional machinery, augmenting the coal-cutting minutes.
In conclusion, Wenhold encapsulated Sasol’s commitment to quality, even as the company navigates mining challenges in complex reserve areas. He underlined the importance of continuous productivity improvement for the future, stressing that targeted enhancements at Secunda collieries are pivotal for long-term sustainability.
