With more than 30 years of experience in hard and soft rock environments, top tier opencut mining contractor TAU Mining has proven that turnkey solutions provide operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, effective risk management and consistent quality throughout the mining process.

“This integrated approach ensures that various components of the operation work seamlessly together, contributing to the success and sustainability of the mining project,” says TAU Mining CEO Mikhail Makhnach.

Evolving from a private consultancy into one of the largest mining contractors in South Africa, TAU Mining has a proven record of operating in remote and challenging locations, working for noteworthy mining companies such as Anglo American, BHP Billiton, South32, Vedanta and Seriti.

“With access to a range of human and equipment resources, TAU Mining is committed to delivering world-class mining services,” says Makhnach.

Planning and production scheduling is a key service offered by the company, which strives to create a foundation built on the correct planning measures to ensure future success for its clients.

“Mine planning is an interactive process that includes elements of design, scheduling and evaluation and is one of the core parts to achieving success. As part of the planning process, a range of issues must be considered, including short and long-term planning, mine optimisation and cutoff grade analysis. The annual production scheduling of openpit mines determines an optimal sequence for the yearly extraction of mineralised material from the ground, generally increasing the total net present value of the operation evaluation,” explains Makhnach.

In addition, TAU Mining offers mine surveys, which are critical to mine design, planning and safety and must be accurately represented in mine plans. 

The company also delivers a total and customised solution that goes beyond the provision of equipment through its equipment rental and maintenance service. 

“Our team is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that you get exactly what you need, when you need it. We understand that expert service is crucial for your success, which is why our sales and service team has the expertise to provide a seamless technical setup that is tailored to your specific needs,” advises Makhnach.

Being cognisant of the evolving energy needs of its clients, TAU Mining has added photovoltaic (PV) plant construction to its list of services.

TAU Mining is an integrated PV specialist, striving to support the expansion of renewable energies and the movement towards a greener future, adds Makhnach. 

“Our focus is on managing assets successfully, operating power plants optimally and advancing the expansion of renewable energies. We cover the entire value chain and our team of experienced PV plant construction experts ensure that your project is designed to allow for efficient operational management and is implemented effectively to enhance yield.”

Planning documents, regulatory requirements and recognised technology rules are adhered to, ensuring a high level of solar PV plant construction quality. This also enables TAU Mining to identify any defects early on and assert claims under warranty, helping its clients to avoid costly repairs and disputes with general contractors. 

TAU Mining has extensive practical experience in the selection of equipment and the construction, operation and maintenance of PV plants. 

“Our company is certified for construction works in the European Union and Commonwealth of Independent States markets, and we have our own pile driving machines,” highlights Makhnach.

Advantages of Turnkey Solutions Provider

Depending on TAU Mining to deliver a turnkey solution through its comprehensive range of services affords a mine numerous advantages, such as the streamlining of the overall mining operation.

“With TAU Mining as a turnkey solution provider, there is a higher level of coordination and efficiency in project execution. The different facets of the mining operation are interconnected and can be seamlessly managed by a single entity, reducing the complexity of coordination between multiple contractors,” explains Makhnach.

Clients also benefit from consistent quality and adherence to standards across various aspects of the mining process. This ensures that each stage of the operation meets the required specifications and standards.

Further, using a single contractor for multiple services can lead to cost savings. TAU Mining’s expertise, combined with the use of world-class equipment and partnerships with original-equipment manufacturers (OEMs), contributes to efficient and cost-effective operations, advances Makhnach.

Partnerships with OEMs and a standing partnership agreement with Hitachi South Africa also ensure access to reliable equipment, technical support and guaranteed availability of critical spare parts. 

“Having a single point of contact for equipment and technical support mitigates operational risks,” he adds.

Job Creation and Skills Development

As the development and maintenance of a skilled workforce contributes to the long-term success of the mining operation, TAU Mining’s services also include theoretical education and practical training of operators, as well as specialised advanced training. 

The company is committed to job creation and skills development in the local communities surrounding the mining operations it services.

“This commitment is aligned with our purpose of realising the full potential of colleagues and contributing positively to the development of the countries in which we operate,” elaborates Makhnach.

TAU Mining’s sustainability policy includes a commitment to providing opportunities for employment, training, skills transfer and personal growth within a safe environment.

In addition, the company is committed to South Africa’s broad-based black economic-empowerment and localisation strategies, collaborating with local communities to support economic development and empowerment.

“TAU Mining also aims to respond to community needs and build sustainable social capital. This suggests a proactive approach to engaging with and addressing the needs of the local communities, contributing to overall social development,” says Makhnach.

After reaching significant heights in contract mining, TAU Mining has adopted a new strategy for risk diversification and development going forward. 

The plan, from 2024 to 2025, is focused on delivering and preparing for future growth. During this period, the company will concentrate on setting up principles and refining processes to ensure long-term success and sustainability.

From 2026 to 2027, the company will diversify its strategy to further secure long-term success and sustainability. This strategy involves constantly seeking new opportunities, including those in other African countries, to expand its product offering. 

“The company’s dedicated business development team is committed to executing every stage of the process with precision and consistency, while the investment committee leaves no stone unturned in its quest for success,” advises Makhnach.

The sustained success of TAU Mining can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including strategic partnerships, extensive industry experience, and an unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability, he adds, emphasising that the contribution of the company’s team can also not be underestimated.

Phone: + 27 10 753 2018 

E-mail: mail@taumining.co.za 

Website: http://taumining.co.za/