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The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM)

Written by: Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard
  • Summary

  • Welcome to The Crucible, where the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy gives you a front row seat to conversations with specialists in the Minerals and Metals sector. SAIMM has well over 100 years’ experience in, and commitment to, protecting the professional standards of our industry. Join us as we discuss key issues, and global initiatives, to give you the relevant information needed to make informed decisions, to influence policy that directly affects our sector, and to help our industry grow in an uncertain future.
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Episodes
  • Presidents in Conversation | William Joughin
    May 31 2024
    In this episode, William Joughin, President of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) and Director of SRK Global talks to host Zelmia Botha who is the Immediate Past President of SAIMM.

    William shares his background and experience in the mining industry, including his work at Anglo American, SRK Consulting, and his involvement with various organisations like the South African National Institute for Rock Engineering (SANIRE) and the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM).

    He discusses the importance of SAIMM in creating a platform for professionals to engage, learn, and share ideas, as well as its role in addressing challenges faced by the minerals industry through collaboration with other institutes, the Minerals Council South Africa, and the government. William highlights the benefits of SAIMM membership, such as access to publications, conferences, and networking opportunities. He also emphasises the importance of research and development, and the need for the industry to transition towards renewable energy and sustainable practices.

    The conversation touches on topics like the impact of global events on the industry, the brain-drain of young engineers, and the value of creating a global network through SAIMM. Visit the SAIMM Website
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    29 mins
  • Rare Earths: Global Impact and Sustainability | Elmar Muller
    May 22 2024
    In this episode, Dr Elmar Muller, Executive Manager: Hydrometallurgy at Mintek, talks to host Zelmia Botha about Rare Earths and the global impact and sustainability thereof.

    The key points they discuss include Rare Earth minerals being abundant but difficult to mine and extract, with low concentrations in ores (around 0.3%). They are essential for many modern technologies like electronics, renewable energy, defence systems, etc. Global consumption is around 200,000-300,000 tons per year. China currently dominates the production (97% in 2011). Other countries like the US, Australia, and South Africa are investing in developing their own rare earth supply chains to reduce reliance on China.

    The major challenges include high costs, environmental impact, lack of downstream processing facilities, and skills shortages. Recycling, finding alternatives, and reducing waste are key focus areas to improve sustainability.

    Collaboration between the government, the private sector, and research institutions is crucial for South Africa to develop a rare earth industry. Dr Elmar also presents some action items that could assist South Africa to develop a Rare Earth industry.

    Zelmia briefly mentions conferences like the Rare Earths Conference and the Battery Materials Conference which are being organised by the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) which aim to facilitate such collaborations. Visit the SAIMM Website
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    49 mins
  • The Value and Importance of Mentoring | Simone Naicker
    Apr 30 2024
    In this episode, Simone Naicker, a mining influencer and speaker and Senior Metallurgical Engineer at Exxaro Resources, shares her insights on mentorship, personal branding 'My Tiara is a Hard Hat', and the role of young professionals in the mining industry.

    Key points include: Mentorship providing developmental value by facilitating knowledge transfer and skills growth through guidance from experienced individuals. A connected economy involves collaboration across borders, industries, and demographics, enabled by digital connectivity.

    Simone also discusses how organisations should benchmark best practices and collaborate to optimise mentorship programmes and leverage diverse mentor pools. She also explains how cross-gender mentorship offers valuable perspectives, however ethical considerations like preventing inappropriate conduct, are important. Connect with Simone Naicker on LinkedIn · Visit the SAIMM Website
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    46 mins

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