'Platinum in Transformation'

In recent years, the platinum mining industry has seen substantial transformation with the introduction of more mining companies, including a number of new enterprises, and the takeover of some of the smaller companies; bigger and better BEE deals, and the award of New Order Mining Rights; the strong emphasis placed on safety in the workplace; extensive exploration programmes and associated feasibility studies; improved metallurgical recoveries; the adoption of environmentally sound operating practices; and, last but not least, a massive increase in mechanised mining. The purpose of this conference is to share these advances with all those determined to make the mining and production of PGMs a safer and more profitable activity.

Topics will include:

• Exploration and orebody delineation
• Project valuation and funding
• Current and future mine design and layout
• Current and future mining operations
• Mineral processing, smelting, and refining
• New technologies for mining and processing
• Mining Charter and legislation
• Platinum marketing, uses, and applications
• Environment and sustainability

The slogan 'Platinum in Transformation' was selected to describe the changing nature of all aspects of platinum mining, beneficiation, and marketing.

The conference is planned to begin on 5 October 2008, to allow for some introductory social activities (on the Sun City golf course, for example) on the Sunday preceding the three-day conference. Post-conference plant visits will be arranged for those interested on Thurday 9 October.

Of significance to South African participants who are registered professional engineers, is the fact that this conference will provide points towards the Continuing Professional Development that is required (as of 1 January 2006) to maintain registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa.

For more information please click here - http://www.platinum.org.za/Pt2008/