Technical expertise shortage in junior mining

There is a shortage of expertise in the specialised domain of junior mining – a situation that is compounded by South Africa’s so-called brain drain, as skilled professionals seek jobs elsewhere, says pump and parts manufacturer Schurco Slurry.

Consequently, junior miners have limited access to advanced technical knowledge because of the high demand and cost of expertise, says Schurco Slurry processing and technical specialist Donovan Higginson.

To counteract this limited access, the company is using its extensive global resources to commit to the ongoing research and development of new and innovative slurry pump solutions across all aspects of mineral processing and handling.

Higginson emphasises that research is essential in the ongoing development and improvement of slurry pumps, noting that it will enable the enhancement of efficiency while reducing costs and improving durability.

It will also allow the company to meet the evolving needs of end-users and the regulatory requirements of various industries, he adds.

Additionally, the company is willing to collaborate with junior miners on specific projects and geological challenges presented by operations that are situated in remote locations across Africa.

There are many challenges in the minerals processing sector, including the increasing demand for bulk, high-grade mineral products in a volatile market that is influenced by factors such as politics, and resource and reserve quantities and grades, Higginson elaborates.

Therefore, Schurco Slurry’s range of pumps and accessories have been strategically developed to cater to modern minerals processing demands and constraints.

The company’s slurry pumps, vertical spindles and dewatering pumps are available in numerous sizes and materials to ensure that end-users receive fit-for-purpose pump units across multiple applications, while providing a “good-quality, efficient and reliable product” to ensure end-user targets are met.

“Schurco Slurry has an extremely extensive stockholding of spare parts at our facilities globally to ensure that clients are provided with the necessary support and supply 24/7, when and where needed,” he states.

Additionally, Schurco Slurry’s experienced maintenance and field service teams play a pivotal role in supporting clients and ensuring that production is operating as required.

To establish a support mechanism for junior miners, Schurco Slurry ensures that there is technical support available in remote and challenging areas by visiting these locations or training local individuals to gather essential information about the challenges that each specific client faces, and it consequently develops customised solutions, Higginson concludes.