Exxaro Belfast, located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, stands as a prominent figure in the country’s mining industry. Positioned 55 km east of Middelburg and 20 km southwest of the town of Belfast, this opencast coal mine is strategically situated on the southern side of the N4 highway, within the renowned Witbank coalfield.
Overview of Exxaro Belfast Mine
Exxaro Belfast is part of Exxaro Resources, one of South Africa’s leading coal producers. The mine plays a significant role in the extraction of high-grade coal, which is a vital resource for South Africa’s energy and industrial sectors. It operates with four opencast pits, with the latest addition, Pit 4B, launched in 2021.
The mine is recognized for its advanced technology, boasting a digitally connected infrastructure that enhances its efficiency and productivity. Through remote monitoring, the maintenance teams at Belfast can track the performance of equipment and manage devices seamlessly, ensuring optimal operation. This innovative approach makes the mine one of the most digitally advanced in the country, aligning with Exxaro’s commitment to sustainability and technological integration in mining operations.
Coal Production and Export
Exxaro Belfast is known for producing both primary and secondary coal products. The primary output is A-grade coal, with a calorific value of 6,000 kcal/kg, making it suitable for both domestic and international markets. The secondary product is middling coal with a calorific value of 21.5 MJ/kg.
The mine’s coal is crucial to Exxaro’s RB1 export product, which is exported through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT). With a combined production capacity of 2.7 million tonnes per annum, Exxaro Belfast has a projected life span of 17 years. The mine continues to contribute significantly to the South African economy, with coal being one of the country’s primary export commodities.
Resources and Reserves
Exxaro Belfast boasts a rich resource base. The mine has measured resources of 72 million tonnes and an additional 20 million tonnes of inferred resources. The proven reserves stand at 40 million tonnes, with an additional 2 million tonnes as probable reserves. The run-of-mine (ROM) coal production stands at 3 million tonnes, ensuring a steady supply to meet both local and international demands.
Sustainability and Technology Integration
One of the standout features of Exxaro Belfast is its commitment to environmental sustainability and digitalization. The mine utilizes state-of-the-art technology to reduce its environmental impact while enhancing its operational efficiency. Through the integration of digital systems, the Belfast maintenance teams can monitor and manage the mine’s performance remotely, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed swiftly and efficiently.
Contact Exxaro Belfast
For further inquiries, Exxaro Belfast is located at:
Exxaro Resources Contact Information
Phone: +27 12 307 5000
Address: 263B, West Avenue, Die Hoewes, Centurion, 0163, South Africa
If you suspect any fraudulent activities or unethical practices, Exxaro encourages the public to report them through their independent channels:
Fraud and Ethics Hotline
Phone: +27 800 203 579
Email: exxaro@tip-offs.com