Sanire’s Back to Basics symposium was aimed at showing practically, through the presentation of case studies, how designs on different operations are developed and verified. It addressed the questions that have been raised as to the appropriateness of empirical designs, and rock engineering designs in general, following recent large collapses in the platinum mining industry. Get the lowdown here.
The topics addressed at October’s Sanire symposium held on the Lonmin Game Farm near Rustenburg, included design methods, instrumentation and monitoring, the design of pillars, beams and spans, and how to allow for the unknowns in design.
Ten excellent presentations saw these topics well addressed. The keynote address – Getting to Grips with the Reality of Variability – was presented by Prof Nielen van der Merwe, Professor, Centennial Chair for Rock Engineering, at the Wits School of Mining Engineering.
The prize for the best presentation went to the paper on the implementation of integrated safety monitoring systems at Aquarium Platinum, by Phip Piper and Renier Gerber.
Sanire also took the opportunity to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Prof Dick Stacey. It was proudly presented to him by William Joughin, who took pleasure in reading out his achievements.
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Prof Dick Stacey (right) was pleased to be given the Lifetime Achievement Award, handed to him by William Joughin (left) and Les Gardner (centre). |
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The symposium attracted 150 delegates, including the two renowned professors in Rock Mechanics mentioned, as well as twelve exhibitors. |
