Associate Professor Grobler with representatives from Flyability and GammaTec Cork Rod Handle,Cork Rod Grip,Cork Handle Fishing Rod,Fishing Rod Cork Jiangsu Real Sporting Goods Limited Company , https://www1.ruiousporting.com
What has been your career path in mining in South Africa?
I graduated in 1991 with a mine surveying qualification from the Department of Mining Engineering and Mine Surveying at the University of Johannesburg. After that, I obtained my Government Certificate of Competency in 1994, which is essential for working in the mining industry in South Africa. For the next thirteen years, I worked in gold, nickel, and platinum mines across the country. In 2007, I transitioned into academia, joining the same department where I had studied, and have been teaching there ever since.
Can you tell us about the Mining Engineering and Mine Surveying Department at the University of Johannesburg?
The Mining Engineering and Mine Surveying Department is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, so it has a long and respected history. We offer undergraduate degrees in both mining engineering and mine surveying, as well as honors and master’s programs. Each year, we train around 600 students across these four degree programs. Our focus is not only on academic excellence but also on employability—many of our students enter the mining industry before or immediately after completing their studies.
What unique training facilities does your department have?
A few years ago, we constructed a full-scale simulation mine inside a basement on campus. This facility allows students to gain hands-on experience without having to travel to real mines daily. It's one of only a handful of such facilities worldwide. The tunnel is used for training, testing new technologies like drones and robots, and even for virtual reality simulations. We’ve tested the Boston Dynamics Spot robot and Flyability’s Elios 3 in this space. Additionally, we have a virtual reality platform where students can practice drilling and blasting in a safe, controlled environment.
How are drones being used in mining?
Drones are primarily used for surveying and inspections. They help update surface plans more efficiently and reduce the need for personnel to work in dangerous or extreme conditions. For underground inspections, they can collect visual and LiDAR data in unstable areas, helping identify issues like hangups and improve overall site understanding.
What are the advantages of using drones in mining?
Safety and efficiency are two major benefits. Drones allow for remote data collection in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas, reducing risk for workers. They also save time and provide high-quality data that multiple teams—like engineers, geologists, and surveyors—can use. In emergency situations, drones could be deployed to assess conditions and locate missing individuals without putting rescuers in danger.
Are there any concerns about drone usage in mines?
South Africa has strict regulations regarding drone operations, but some mining companies are still using unlicensed drones or untrained operators. This can lead to legal consequences and safety risks. Proper training and licensing are essential to ensure safe and effective use.
How can Flyability’s Elios 3 benefit mining operations?
The Elios 3 is highly stable and equipped with a LiDAR sensor, making it ideal for mapping and inspecting underground spaces. Its camera rotation feature helps identify survey points, and its stability makes it reliable for accurate data collection. We've tested it with a hardhat on top, and it remained steady, proving its durability.
What are the benefits of using LiDAR-equipped drones in mining?
LiDAR technology allows for precise mapping even in low visibility conditions, such as dust or smog. It doesn’t rely on lighting and can create real-time 3D maps, which is crucial in challenging environments. It also helps detect geological hazards and improves the accuracy of inspections in areas like ore passes.
What does the future hold for drones in South African mining?
While drone adoption is still in its early stages, their value is already clear. I believe every mining operation should own at least one drone to integrate it into daily workflows. Having more drones on site would allow for regular mapping and better monitoring of mining activities. As the industry continues to evolve, drones will play an increasingly vital role in making mining safer and more efficient.
In this interview, we sit down with Associate Professor Grobler to discuss the growing use of drones in South Africa’s mining sector. From enhancing safety and operational efficiency to revolutionizing data collection, drones are making a significant impact on how mining is conducted today.
July 14, 2025