Valterra Platinum Ventilation on Demand (VOD)

Problem/Opportunity

Valterra Platinum’s Mogalakwena Sandsloot Exploration Decline operations faced significant ventilation constraints due to limited primary airflow that could be drawn from the declines.  The operation’s varied and massive mining methods required up to 45m3/s of air to be delivered.

Additionally, multiple headings often required usable volumes of air simultaneously, necessitating careful ventilation management to prevent recirculation and ensure flexibility during development advances.  

To address these challenges effectively it required a Ventilation On Demand (VOD) solution. 

Technical Capabilities

A collaboration between Clemcorp Australia and Dwyka Mining Services provided a ventilation solution that met Sandsloot’s specific requirements.

Clemcorp has been working with Dwyka Mining Services for many years.  Developing a partnership which utilises both companies strengths to provide mining sites with tailored ventilation solutions. 

Dwyka Mining Services assisting the Sandsloot operation to integrate technology that improved its safety, health and environmental conditions.

Clemcorp Australia supplied CC1400MK4 Dual Speed Axial Fans, each fitted with dual 110kW / 37kW motors, offering up to four modes, including a low speed setting specifically designed to limit the volume of air drawn from the decline. These dual-speed fans are engineered to operate at two distinct speeds, providing flexible and responsive ventilation control aligned with real-time mining requirements. This operational versatility enables the optimisation of airflow, reduces energy consumption, and mitigates ventilation challenges such as air recirculation and damage to ducting, particularly as ducting is extended in newer development ends.

To complement the fan systems, Clemcorp supplied custom-designed dual-speed starter panels. These panels enable the automated control of fan speed transitions, ensuring smooth and efficient adjustments between operating modes in response to evolving ventilation demands.        

Solution

Valterra Platinum’s Mogalakwena Sandsloot Exploration Decline successfully executed the plan, integrating the CC1400MK4 Dual Speed Axial Fans and automated starter panels into their operations.  It enabled more precise control over ventilation, meeting the varying demands of multiple headings and significantly reducing the risk of air recirculation.

Products & services provided

• Dual Speed Axial Fans - CC1400Mk4 (2 x 110kW/37kW)
• Dual Speed Custom Remote Starter Panels
• Ventilation on Demand