Royal IHC has reached a significant milestone in its collaboration with Kenmare Resources by commencing the construction of a new electric mining dredger. The keel laying ceremony, held last Friday, marks the official start of this important project.
The Keel Laying Ceremony: A Milestone in Dredger Construction
The keel laying ceremony is a traditional shipbuilding event that signifies the beginning of the construction process. This milestone is particularly important for Royal IHC and Kenmare Resources as they embark on the development of a state-of-the-art electric mining dredger.
Insights from IHC Mining’s Director
Hans Greve, Director of IHC Mining, shared more about the custom-built vessels being developed at Royal IHC’s Kinderdijk yard.
Power and Efficiency in Electric Dredgers
“These vessels, designed with 6,800 kVA of total power and 1,350 kW of cutter power, are set to play a pivotal role in the operations at the newly extended Moma Mine site in Mozambique,” explained Greve. “The keel laying is a significant step forward, symbolizing our commitment to delivering high-performance, electric cutter suction dredgers.”
Kenmare Resources and the Moma Mine
Kenmare Resources operates the Moma Mine, a leading mineral sands operation in Mozambique. Over the years, IHC Mining has been a key partner in supporting Kenmare’s operations by delivering advanced dredging equipment. Among the dredgers previously delivered is the JULIA, which entered service in 2019.
The Nataka Expansion: A Long-Term Vision
The new electric dredgers are designed to operate at Nataka, the newly extended section of the Moma Mine. This expansion is expected to sustain operations for several decades, reinforcing the mine’s long-term productivity.
Project Timeline and Delivery Expectations
The construction of these two new dredgers is progressing on schedule, with delivery expected in late 2024 or early 2025. These vessels will further enhance Kenmare’s mining capabilities, contributing to the continued success of the Moma Mine.
Conclusion: Advancing Sustainable Mining with Electric Dredgers
The collaboration between Royal IHC and Kenmare Resources highlights the industry’s shift towards more sustainable mining solutions. The introduction of electric dredgers at the Moma Mine not only boosts operational efficiency but also aligns with global efforts to reduce environmental impact.
By focusing on cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, Royal IHC and Kenmare Resources are setting a new standard in the mining industry.