Engineering News and Mining Weekly
Major ventilation installation completed by manufacturer
During March, technology-driven mining and industrial fan and ventilation manufacturer TLT Turbo Africa successfully implemented a major ventilation project within the platinum belt of South Africa.
The platinum belt – which is centrally situated on the borders of Gauteng, North West, Limpopo and Mpumalanga in South Africa – hosts platinum mines that range in depth from 40 m to one of the deepest platinum mines globally, at 1 922 m below surface.
TLT-Turbo Africa, which is committed to developing innovative solutions and the promotion of sustainable practices, says this latest project emphasises its role as a significant roleplayer in mining equipment provision and marks a significant technological advancement in the mining industry.
The project, completed in two phases, includes the installation and commissioning of customised bifurcated surface fan stations, each with a dual-stage 220 kW fan system.
Designed to operate continuously, these fans address the high pressure and efficiency demands characteristic of deep level underground mining operations.
Complying with noise restrictions to reduce the impact on nearby communities was an important achievement for the project, demonstrating TLT-Turbo Africa’s commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
The use of TLT-Turbo Africa’s standardised, modular Auxiliary and Booster Fan range highlights a shift towards streamlined manufacturing processes that significantly reduce lead times and promote local availability of spare parts, thus ensuring swift maintenance and repairs.
“Our ventilation solutions are engineered to ensure the safety, health and wellness of mining personnel, while facilitating better underground conditions and ease of maintenance,” says TLT-Turbo Africa sales engineer Katlego Nchabeleng.
He adds that these installations are an example of the company’s approach to delivering quality and sustainable advancements in mine ventilation.
In addition, the platinum belt project is also an example of TLT-Turbo Africa’s resurgence in the South African mining sector, showcasing its capability to overcome industry challenges and position the company at the forefront of mining technology development.
With an eco-friendly design built into their operation, TLTTurbo Africa’s fans are an example of the company’s alignment with global environmental standards, focusing on energy efficient solutions that contribute to the broader environmental imperatives of the mining industry.
The company’s ongoing projects include a notable initiative in the Democratic Republic of Congo and an anticipated installation of modular mine fans in South Africa, reinforcing TLT-Turbo Africa’s commitment to innovation in the mining sector.