Specialist drilling company Technique Drilling Services (TDS) is engaged in a rebuild and repair project, which includes new modifications for a Kemp drilling rig LEVENT 1001 for the Shondoni mine, in Secunda, Mpumalanga, owned and operated by global chemicals and energy company Sasol.

“We needed to create a way [of] . . . ensuring the delivery and completion of the project will be cost effective while improving on Sasol’s production outcomes,” says TDS MD Vusi Mnguni.

Consequently, TDS had to change the planned scope to ensure that major components were refurbished, rather than replaced, while maintaining Kemp drilling rig LEVENT 1001 at its optimal level.

Mnguni adds that the rebuilt rig includes structural improvements that will increase the life span of the machine; a solution that should prove relatively cost effective for the mine, as it enables the mine to invest the majority of its capital expenditure in other projects that will aid the mine’s expansion.

The improved structure and refurbishment of the rig’s major components will enhance production quality, allowing for the rig to run at an optimal level, thereby ensuring that the mine can reduce its downtime.

The rebuilt rig will include a trailer that will improve the mobility of the rig, consequently enabling operators to save time when moving the rig across multiple sites, explains Mnguni.

The trailer will be fitted with quick-change wheels, allowing for the wheels to be fitted with ease, and less travel time and improved efficiencies, as the time spent on ‘standing occurrences’, owing to wheel-related issues, is negated.

TDS safety officer and manager Blessing Mafumela states that operator safety will be improved through the installation of a proximity detection system by safety and monitoring solutions specialist Monitech. The system will identify and communicate problems, obstacles and potential hazards to the operator and relevant staff in the control room.

He notes that, among these improvements is TDS’ integrated management system, which will be implemented in accordance with the environmental and safety requirements of ISO 45001.

TDS general manager and director Oletta Ntshane says the rebuild and refurbishment project has an expected timeline of about six to eight weeks, including the completion of the trailer, which is being built and designed in accordance with Sasol specifications and requirements.

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