Contribution
For decades South Africa has been a pivotal participant in mining due to its abundance of mineral resources and skilled and experienced labour force. Mining influences local and international markets, is well respected, and continues to be a dominant force in the industry due to its investment potential and untapped reserves.
With these reserves, the sector continues to be a major player in the international mining market, and its rich mineral resources and a strong workforce, maintain a well-positioned status in the global economy.
Best Valves for Mining
Due to its compact design and efficient flow control capabilities with quarter-turn operations, Butterfly Valves are some of the best valves for mining and are suited to environments where space is limited underground.
Their ability to handle substantial flow rates with relatively low pressure drops, along with resistance to debris accumulation, position butterfly valves as a practical choice for a variety of fluid and slurry handling tasks within mining operations.
Known for their ability to provide straight-through flow and effective shut-off, Gate Valves offer robust on/off operation, when precise control isn’t a priority. Gate valves excel by offering minimal flow restriction when fully open, facilitating efficient material transport within pipelines.
Gate valves’ robust construction and durability make them well-suited for the demanding and abrasive conditions found in mining operations, ensuring reliable performance and reduced maintenance in harsh environments.
Owing to its vital functions in preventing backflow and safeguarding system integrity, Check Valves provide optimal flow direction and prevention of contamination or damage to piping infrastructure. Check valves ensure unidirectional flow and prevent fluid or slurry reversal, safeguarding pumps and equipment from potential damage.
Their straightforward design and self-automated operation with diverse fluids and variable pressures make check valves dependable components, reducing the need for constant monitoring and intervention.
Top Mined Minerals In South Africa
With vast mineral deposits in Gauteng, North-West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, and the Northern Cape, South Africa remains the world leader in the supply of specific minerals.
Platinum Group Metals (PGM)
Platinum Group Metals consist of six precious metals including platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which hold influential economic and technological value. Contributing up to 88% of the world’s platinum and a high portion of palladium, these metals drive innovations in catalytic converters, electronics, and jewellery.
Chromium (Chrome)
An essential ingredient in stainless steel production and other alloys, South Africa’s chromium mining contributes up to 50% of the global reserves and is a leader in chrome ore exports. South Africa’s chrome mining sector influences global metallurgy and infrastructure projects by providing the building blocks for durable and corrosion-resistant materials.
Manganese
Because it’s an indispensable element for steel production and batteries, Manganese Mining places South Africa at the forefront of global demand. Manganese’s versatility in multiple industries, including construction and energy storage, drives its significance in global development. The Northern Cape reserves hold about 80% of the world’s known manganese resources, however South Africa only produces about 36% of the global consumption.
Gold
With a long history of gold mining in South Africa, the country continues to contribute around 5% of the world’s gold production, while it still holds around 50% of the world reserves. Not only is gold a symbol of wealth and prosperity, but it is also a safe-haven hedge against inflation.
Coal
Being a key energy resource, coal plays a crucial role in South Africa’s mining landscape (although not officially a mineral). South Africa is a substantial coal producer, with reserves supporting both domestic energy generation for Coal Fired Power Stations, and global exports. South Africa’s share of the global coal market fluctuates between 3-5%, making it an integral player in powering industries worldwide. South Africa’s coal sector faces challenges due to Primary Energy transformation, while remaining vital to global energy security.
