In this interview, we had the chance to speak with Associate Professor Grobler about the growing role of drones in mining in South Africa. Drones are being utilized to enhance safety, efficiency, and data collection in mining operations, offering new opportunities for innovation.
Professor Grobler shared his journey in mining, starting with his graduation in mine surveying from the University of Johannesburg in 1991. He later obtained his Government Certificate of Competency in 1994, which is a must-have qualification for anyone working in South African mines. Over the next thirteen years, he worked in various mines, dealing with gold, nickel, and platinum extraction. His career took a turn in 2007 when he began teaching at the University of Johannesburg, returning to the same department where he initially trained.
The Mining Engineering and Mine Surveying Department at the University of Johannesburg is celebrating its centenary in 2026. The department offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in mining engineering and mine surveying, training approximately 600 students annually. One of the key focuses of the department is ensuring that students are job-ready, with many already employed in mines during their studies or joining the workforce after graduation.
One of the most exciting developments in the department is the simulation mine, a unique facility constructed a few years ago. This underground tunnel provides students with a realistic mining environment without the risks associated with visiting actual mines. Additionally, the department has implemented a virtual reality platform that allows students to practice tasks such as drilling and blasting in a safe and controlled setting.
When it comes to drones in mining, Professor Grobler highlighted two primary applications: surveying and inspections. Drones are instrumental in updating surface plans regularly, reducing the need for personnel to traverse hazardous terrains. They also play a crucial role in inspecting unstable areas underground, aiding in identifying potential hang-ups and improving overall understanding of the mine's structure.
The benefits of using drones in mining are numerous. Safety is a major advantage, as drones can reach dangerous or inaccessible areas without putting human lives at risk. Efficiency is another key factor, as drones can collect high-quality data rapidly and remotely. The data collected by drones can be invaluable to various departments within a mining operation, providing essential information to engineers, surveyors, and geologists alike.
However, there are challenges to consider. South Africa has stringent drone licensing regulations, yet some mining operations are bypassing these rules by using drones without proper licenses or training. This poses legal and safety risks, as non-compliance can result in hefty fines and criminal charges from regulatory bodies.
Flyability’s Elios 3 has been particularly impressive. Its stability improvements over its predecessor, the Elios 2, have been significant. The drone’s roll cage and enhanced stability make it a reliable tool for collecting accurate data. The ability to rotate the camera and integrate LiDAR sensors further enhances its capabilities, allowing for detailed mapping of inaccessible areas and block caving. Unlike photogrammetry, LiDAR does not require lighting and can penetrate dust and smog, making it ideal for the challenging conditions often found in South African mines.
Looking ahead, the adoption of drones in mining in South Africa is still in its infancy. While some skepticism exists regarding whether drones are merely technology searching for solutions, Professor Grobler believes drones have already proven their worth. Many mines in the country now have access to drone technology, and the next step is to encourage broader integration and ownership of drones by mining companies themselves. Ideally, each mining house would own multiple drones, enabling regular mapping and enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
This interview underscored the transformative potential of drones in mining, offering a glimpse into how this technology is reshaping the industry in South Africa.
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