This paper investigates the safety and efficiency benefits derived from the use of automated multiple rope handling equipment for Koepe winders as supplied to the Impala Platinum 16 and 17 Shaft Projects. Both projects employ multiple rope Koepe winders with operating depths of 1,640 m for 16 Shaft and 1,900 m for 17 Shaft. Large suspended masses and complex rope installation and changing processes present a challenge for provision of a safe and efficient rope handling system. The paper adopts a qualitative approach by describing the reduction in risk during rope handling resulting from factors including increased levels of inherent safety in the equipment, lower levels of reliance on less sophisticated elements within the equipment chain, simultaneous handling of multiple ropes and reduced exposure to human error. Also considered are the benefits to production resulting from reduced down time during rope installation and changeover processes.
展开▼
