EIA-REP-325d-12 _BB_ - 201.09.14.pdf - SAHRA

within the 4.0m areas. With the C Upper seam, the intersections greater than 1m and 2m were averaged out and
the mean height applied to the total area.
The geological report (included an extensive wet vlei) has been included as inferred because access for drilling is
not possible. Draining of the vlei would be required in order to properly evaluate the potential of these underlying
reserves; which may be influenced by weathering.
The uppermost B Lower Seam horison is encountered at shallow depth with a minimum intersect of 6.06m and a
maximum 17.59m roof of coal. The 2 Seam horison has a generally low ash lustrous dull upper half and a low
ash bright vitrain banded basal zone varying in height between 1,6 to 2,0m pinching rapidly against the basin
margins.
The C Lower Seam horison lies close below the floor of 2 Seam with a mixed shale/sandstone parting varying
between a minimum of 0.08m and a maximum of 3.97m. The seam is generally finely vitrain banded with minor
dull interbeds and varies in height between 0.10 to 2m.
The most economical method of coal extraction from coal seams depends on the depth and quality of the seams,
and also the geology and environmental factors of the area being mined. The impact of coal mining processes is
generally differentiated by whether they operate on the surface or underground.
Coal is mined only where technically feasible and economically justifiable. Evaluation of technical and economic
feasibility of a potential mine requires consideration of many factors:
• regional geologic conditions;
• overburden characteristics;
• coal seam continuity,
• thickness, structure, quality, and depth;
• strength of materials above and below the seam for roof and floor conditions;
• topography (especially altitude and slope);
• climate;
• land ownership as it affects the availability of land for mining and access;
• surface drainage patterns;
• ground water conditions;
• availability of labour and materials;
• coal purchaser requirements in terms of tonnage,
• quality, and destination; and
• capital investment requirements.
The proposed Usutu Colliery opencast mining project will be undertaken over an area of approximately 200 ha at
opencast areas, namely: portion 6A, 6B, 6C, 9 and 14. Mining will be conducted by opencast mining method,
using a truck and shovel rollover mining technique. The mining will be outsourced to a suitably qualified mining
contractor. Mining will be undertaken by diesel powered mining equipment in the form of front end loaders,
excavators, haul and dump trucks, water carts and graders.
EIA-REP-325d-11
October 2012
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