HMC 2025 - THIRTEENTH INTERNATIONAL HEAVY MINERALS CONFERENCE
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Background
THIRTEENTH INTERNATIONAL HEAVY MINERALS CONFERENCE
18-19 AUGUST 2025 - CONFERENCE
SUN CITY RESORT, RUSTENBURG,
SOUTH AFRICA
CONFERENCE THEME
The Value Chain of Heavy Minerals for the Future – From Mine to Market
The HMC series of conferences is traditionally focused on mining and processing of heavy minerals. Whilst this conference will still focus on these important aspects, new challenges and opportunities calls for the evolution of the industry.There is a shift in focus to move closer to some of the strategic downstream industries with a focus on improved integration and value chain optimisation. This conference will aim at involving these key downstream industry players to facilitate dialog and knowledge sharing around technical areas where these value chain improvements can be explored. Further to optimizing current value chains, with the recent changes in the global geopolitical landscape, a strong interest for strategic minerals including rare earth elements provide new opportunities for the industry. Development in these provide additional value from the current resources mined. It however requires evolution in how industry approaches geological characterization through to mining and processing to incorporate the rare earth element bearing mineral extraction alongside current value chain.
To support the themes already highlighted for the conference, generational knowledge transfer needs to be effectively addressed to ensure the workforce of the future is enabled to lead the industry evolution. The development of technical professionals entering the industry workforce ranging from traditional training and exposure pathways to new approaches including Artificial Intelligence is seen as a key enabler for the future of the heavy minerals industry.
Programme
Download the Final Programme...
CONFERENCE OBJECTIVE
This series of conferences was started in 1997 and has run since that date. It provides a forum for an exchange of knowledge in all aspects of heavy minerals, from exploration through processing and product applications. This is a strictly technical conference, and efforts by the Organizing Committee are aimed at preserving its technical nature. The benefit of this focus is that it allows the operators of businesses within this sector to discuss topics not normally covered in such forums. The focus on heavy minerals includes the more obvious minerals such as ilmenite, rutile and zircon; and also other heavy minerals such as garnet, and alusite, and sillimanite.
Organising Committee
- Bart Malan, Multotec – Chairperson
- John Selby – Immediate Past Chairperson
- Faan Bornman, Multotec
- Gilbert Mkhabela, Richards Bay Minerals
- Jandri Beukes, Tronox
- Xolisa Goso, Mintek
- Gertrude Marape, Mintek
- Wynand Erasmus, Derrick International
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Professionals specialising or working in the areas of:
Renewable energy
Water purification
Infrastructure
Desalination plants
As well as the following industry professionals are invited to participate:
Academics
Business development managers
Concentrator managers
Consultants
Engineers
Submit an Abstract
Abstract submissions are now open!
The Heavy Mineral Organising Committee is inviting you to submit an abstract for presentation at the Heavy Minerals 2025 conference.
Why submit an abstract?
- Enhance your professional image
- Draw attention to the accomplishments of your company.
- Provide the industry with your case studies, knowledge, and experience.
- Inform colleagues, policymakers, and researchers about your progress.
- Provide fresh chances for cooperation for the benefit of the sector.
Submission process
Abstracts will be subject to peer review, the committee will decide whether to accept or decline the submissions. Relevance to the conference theme, accuracy and uniqueness of ideas, contribution significance, and presentation quality are among the selection factors. Download abstract submission template
Authors will be notified in writing of the acceptance of their abstract. Once accepted the author can submit a full paper for review. Download paper guidelines
Please note
- All accepted abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings and presented during technical sessions
- All presenting authors are required to register, pay the author registration fee and attend the conference.
Key Dates
- 25 February 2025 – Abstract submissions
- 4 April 2025 - Paper submission
Please email abstracts to Gugu Charlie: Conferences and Events Coordinator, SAIMM at gugu@saimm.co.za
abstracts received
Download the abstracts received
ABOUT THE VENUE
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Pilanesberg, one of South Africa’s most scenic locations, Sun City is a world unto itself and has earned its reputation as Africa’s Kingdom of Pleasure. You will find whatever you want at Sun City, from sizzling entertainment, world class casinos and restaurants to cater for all tastes, to the more relaxed poolside venue, quiet places, lush gardens, and extensive sporting facilities including two world-class golf courses. These are just some of the elements that make Sun City unique among the world’s entertainment resorts. Finally re-discovered and now part of Sun City, the Lost City and the Valley of Waves, fabled to be the Ruins of a glorious ancient civilisation, celebrate and bring to life the legends of this mystical city. The Lost City is internationally applauded for its wonderfully imaginative theme and exquisite landscaping whilst the fantastic Valley of Waves is one of the world’s most exciting waterparks.
Keynote speaker
Peter Gates,
Managing Director, OreKinetics Pty Ltd
- 1979 to 1983 Mechanical Engineering Trainee Australian Iron and Steel (AIS, BHP) Port Kembla NSW Australia.
- As a Mechanical Engineering trainee, indentured first and foremost as a Fitting and Turning trade apprentice. Following a period of initial pure machine shop and fitting training, gained broad engineering experience in the vast operations of BHP’s AIS Port Kembla, NSW, integrated steelmaking operation from shipping, underground coal mining, rolling stock with coke ovens, 5 blast furnaces, steelmaking, both ingot and continuous casting and included a full suite of rolling and steel finishing product mills. In association with my traineeship, I gained a Mechanical Engineering Diploma, a valuable life asset based more on broader practical hands-on engineering, structural design, process performance testing and design.
- 1983 to 1987 Research Officer, Bulk Materials Handling, Mechanical Engineering, Wollongong University, NSW
- In the 1980s, the University of Wollongong’s Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies (later part of the Centre of Excellence) conducted pioneering research on materials handling, broadly for industry in general but also for BHP’s Port Kembla operations.
Key research areas included:
- Bulk solids flow (coal, iron ore, and sinter) to minimise blockages.
- Pneumatic and mechanical transport of raw materials.
- Automation and instrumentation for improved handling.
- Improved structural safety of bulk materials handling bins to limit the high failure rates as a result of uncontrolled material movement within when continuous mass flow bin wall geometry was not met
The fundamental research allowed industry to better design bulk material handling systems for both safety and productivity.
During this time, I earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) and completed my final-year thesis on innovative methods to enhance and automate the consolidation process in Jenike shear cell testing—focusing on improving bulk solids flow analysis for industrial applications.
- 1988 to 1998 Mineral Deposits Limited. Various Mechanical Engineering roles. Mining, dredge and equipment development, Manufacturing, Process Development, R&D Manager.
- Initially involved in engineering of gold and mineral process plants, including mining technology advancements in dredge cutter and revolutionary drive line advancement in the Viney Creek HM operations, trommel optimising and sizing, screening, pumping system design, conversion of 5 wire dredges to 2 wire with walking spuds…
- Developed fast prototyping methods for spiral development to speed up existing development processes by an order of magnitude
- Developed and implemented the first vertical spiral manufacturing system
- Developed the MG6.1 to MG6.3 range of spirals, 4 start High capacity and FM spirals
- Mechanical development of the Inprosys RER magnet products
- 1999 to present. Founder and Managing Director, OreKinetics Pty Ltd
- From my garage…..developed ideas that led to our UltraStat separator and its associated series of patents. The UltraStat, although not to the same commercial success enjoyed by our CoronaStat, remains as a key and inventive building block that led to further learning and a ‘higher ground’ so to speak.
- Still from the garage….in 2001/2 developed the CoronaStat (and multiple patents) after limited commercial success of the US but by now had gained key learning, and, just as importantly, key support from what is now Tronox (Cable Sands, Twiest JV, Namakwa Sands) an Iluka Resources et al.
- 2012 as the US and CS separators became mature industry leading products, decided to venture into an original passion…..gravity separation. Fundamental research ensued and has now culminated in a series of patents and the commencement of commercial manufacturing operations.
Tebogo Kale,
Chief Executive, Gravitas Minerals
Tebogo is the inventor of the Optima Separator®, a patented breakthrough technology in mineral separation. He brings deep expertise and passion to the integration of advanced separation systems within process flows, driving efficiency and value in the mining sector.
As Chief Executive of Gravitas®, he leads a pioneering team in developing next-generation separation technologies that empower mining operations to extract greater value from current arisings and tailings streams—ushering in a more sustainable and resilient future for the industry.
registration fees
Early bird registration valid until 19 May 2025
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Kindly note, registration closes on 13 August 2025. Please note late registrations will incur a R500 administration fee for registrations received after the closing date.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
Download the sponsorship prospectus...
accommodation
SUN CITY ACCOMMODATION
Download the Heavy Minerals 2025 Conference – Accommodation Reservation Form
Alternative Accommodation option:
The Royal Marang Hotel
R1980per night, 2 people sharing and breakfast included
Booking code is SAIMM2025
082 204 4396 or 082 252 4389
071 691 7923 or 082 204 4397
info@royalmarang.com014 573 4100 – (Reply within 24hrs)
Leisure Activities
Top Things to do in Sun City
- Valley of Waves: Spend a day at the man-made beach with ocean waves, exciting water slides, and rides.
- Pilanesberg National Park: Embark on a Big Five safari to see the iconic African wildlife.
- Maze of the Lost City: Explore the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Sun City Casino: Try your luck at the casino with a wide selection of slots and table games.
- Golf Courses: Play on two world-class golf courses.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy activities like zip-sliding, archery, and Segway tours.
- Sun Central: Explore two levels of family-friendly entertainment, including arcade games, restaurants, and a cinema.
- South African Hall of Fame: Take a journey through South African history at this interactive exhibition.
- Nightlife: Dance the night away at one of Sun City's nightclubs.
Tourism Attractions Near Sun City
- Valley of Waves – 014 557 3444
- The Gary Player Golf Course and Country Club – 014 557 1245
- Pilanesberg National Park (Big game reserve with more than 7000 animals & accommodation from bush camping to luxury lodges.) -
- The Maze of the Lost City – 014 557 1000
- Lost City Golf Course – 014 557 1245
- Mankwe GAMETRACKERS – 014 552 5020
- Segway Guided Tours - Sun City – 014 557 4052
- Predator World Zoo – 014 552 6900
SUN CITY SAFARI TOURS
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/safari/
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/adventure/
SPORT AND FITNESS
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/sports/
SHOP AROUND
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/shopping/
Sun Central
- #Sumting - 014 557 1627
- 3rd Base - 014 557 1961
- African Origins - 014 557 1837
- Billabong - 014 557 1960
- Candylicious - 014 557 1922
- Cell Central - 014 557 1876
- Del Sol - 014 557 4506
- Elements - 014 557 1411
- Havaianas - 014 557 1975
- Legends Barbershop - 014 552 1164
- Maphuki Leather - 014 557 1835
- Out of Africa Kids - 014 557 1924
- Sorbet - 014 557 1947
- South African Hall of Fame - 014 557 1978
- Sunglass Store - 014 557 1976
- ValuMed Pharmacy - 014 557 1946
- Zee Bisera Dubai - 083 514 9048
Welcome Centre
- Bidvest Bank Bureau de Change - 014 552 1155
- Hertz Rent-a-Car - 014 557 2912
The Palace
- Browns - The Diamond Store - 014 552 1073
- The Palace Collection - 014 557 3226
- Browns - The Diamond Store - 014 552 1081
Soho
- The Candy Store - 014 557 5110
- J&M Famous Biltong - 014 557 1842
- Lily Tobacconist - 014 557 5100
- Rock Shop -Hard Rock Café - 014 007 0717
- Cabanas Collection - 014 552 1075
Valley of Waves:
- VonZipper - 014 557 5880
- Beach Shop - 014 557 5880
- Finders Keepers - 014 557 1679
- Gary Player Pro Shop - 014 557 1245
- Lost City Pro Shop - 014 557 3722
Visiting South Africa
Sun City, a resort in South Africa's North West province, offers a wide array of activities, from water parks and safaris to casinos and world-class golf, making it a popular destination for various types of travellers.
Here's a more detailed look at what to expect when visiting Sun City:
Best Time to Visit:
- The dry, clear-sky period from May to October is generally considered the best time to visit, especially for safaris.
- Be aware that June and July can bring cold nights.
- The summer months (November to April) can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms.
Getting Around:
- Most attractions at Sun City are within walking distance.
- A free shuttle service is available between hotels and the entertainment centres.
- The Welcome Centre at Sun Central is a one-stop shop for information and booking activities.
Other Tips:
- Consider booking activities and excursions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack for a variety of activities, including swimwear, comfortable clothing, and layers for cooler evenings.
- Enjoy the diverse dining options, from fine dining to family restaurants and themed bars.
Peak seasons
South Africa is generally busiest during the summer months of November - March. Local summer school holidays fall during December and January and at this time local seaside resorts are particularly busy with families and children. Other busy holiday periods are over Easter and during the local June/July school holiday period. For visitors preferring a cooler temperature, fewer tourists and less crowds in general its worth considering visiting in the off-peak months of April/May or September/October You may also be able to take advantage of seasonal discounts at these times.
Seasons & weather
The seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are directly opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is generally mid-October to mid-February, Autumn is February to April, Winter is May to July and Spring falls between August and October.
Summers are generally hot and lightweight clothing is advisable although evenings can be cool. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are a must and remember that sunburn can occur even in overcast weather. In the interior afternoon showers are common during the summer months, while in Cape Town four seasons can be experienced in one day so it is best to be prepared. The winter months are cold, particularly in the interior - warm clothing and raincoats are required.
Time differences
South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year. It is therefore an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.
Passports & visas
Travelling to South Africa is fairly easy and hassle-free. All foreign nationals must be in possession of a valid passport - and in some instances a visa is required. Travellers from Europe, most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Scandinavia and Japan do not need to apply for a visa for vacation purposes. A free entry permit for a period of up to 90-days will be issued on arrival. For visitors wishing to stay longer, an official visa needs to be applied for.
MORE INFORMATION ON VISA REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES
Tax
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 15% VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure and receipts from purchases must be kept and produced.
Currency & banks
The South African currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R. One hundred cents makes up one R1 (one Rand). Currently the Rand is weaker than many European currencies as well as the dollar, making travelling to South Africa affordable by international standards. Visitors will more than likely find eating out and shopping particularly affordable and of an excellent quality. Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Change. Credit cards are widely accepted including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:00-15:30 and on Saturdays from 8:30 - 11:00.
Post offices
Post Offices are generally open Monday to Friday from 8:30-16:30 and on Saturdays from 8:00 -12:00.
Shopping
Most major shopping centres and malls are open 7 days a week from 09:00 to 17:00. In some cases, Sunday shopping hours are from 09:00 - 14:00 and in some smaller towns shops are closed on a Sunday.
Petrol/Gas stations
Petrol or gas stations are widespread throughout South Africa and many are open 24-hours. However, if you are planning a long distance trip through a remote area, ensure that your tank is full to avoid running low. A petrol attendant will fill your tank for you and will often wash your windscreen. Petrol stations do not accept credit cards and petrol must be paid for in cash or with a local petrol card.
Tipping
As a rule South African restaurants do not include a service charge in the total bill. It is customary to leave a 10% tip for good service, or more for excellent service. At petrol station, petrol attendants will fill your tank for you and will offer to wash your windscreen - a tip of whatever small change you have available is appreciated (R1 or R2). In many areas parking attendants will offer to assist you in parking your car and watching over it while you are away - again, a tip of R2 or so is appreciated.
Driving
A valid driver's permit is required to rent a car in South Africa and all drivers must carry a valid driver's licence at all times of driving. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory and driving while talking on a mobile phone is illegal - a hands free kit must be used. Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and strict fines apply. The permissible limit for alcohol consumption is about one glass of wine for the average woman and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average or large man. Speed limits are 120kmph on the open road, 100kmph on smaller roads and between 60 and 80kmph in towns and residential areas. Road signs will indicate the speed limit. Speeding is strictly enforced with cameras and fines are high. Bear in mind the following language differences in South Africa - South Africans put petrol in their cars, not gasoline. Trunks are referred to as boots, while hoods are called bonnets.
Road safety
South Africa has an excellent infrastructure of good quality roads, however the country is large and travelling distances can be long. If you are planning a self-drive holiday, make sure that you allow yourself ample time to reach destinations and make provisions for stop-overs en-route. One of the biggest causes of road accidents on long-distances is fatigue and loss of concentration.
In general, try to avoid driving in unfamiliar areas after dark and in rural areas be aware of cattle or other animals such as buck wandering into the road. Do not stop in remote areas after dark and always park in well-lit, designated parking areas.
Health & medical care
South Africa has excellent health services and doctors with some of the best training in the world. There are adequate hospitals and medical care facilities throughout the country. However, visitors should ensure that they have sufficient funds or medical insurance to cover the fees of private facilities.
As a rule, the tap water in South Africa is safe to drink as all water has been treated. Hygiene and food preparation are of excellent standards and fresh fruit and vegetables are safe to eat.
Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is at low risk in the winter months. It is only possible to contract malaria by being bitten by an infected mosquito - however, when visiting these areas it is advisable to take the necessary safety and medical precautions. Use mosquito nets and an insect repellent to avoid being bitten. In addition, medication can be taken and should be taken according to the instructions given. Medication should be taken starting two weeks before entering the malaria zone and for four weeks after leaving the area. Consult with your doctor beforehand and note that malaria medication should not be taken during pregnancy.
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa and immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required. However, if you are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone, you must be in possession of a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Infants under the age of one year are exempt.
Personal safety
As in any foreign country, visitors are advised to be aware and alert when travelling to avoid falling prey to petty theft and crime. Most areas and attractions of South Africa can be safely visited. However, use common sense, be discreet with expensive camera equipment and jewellery and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking in deserted areas after dark and when driving, always park in a well-lit and designated parking area. In you have any doubts, speak to your hosts and ask for their advice on potential areas to avoid.
Disabled facilities
This is an area in which South Africa needs to improve on. Generally speaking many accommodation providers have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Most public buildings cater for wheelchair access and most sports stadiums have areas accessible to wheelchairs. National parks usually have at least one wheelchair accessible chalet or room.
Electricity
South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz
Exceptions: Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V)
Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. Adaptors can be purchased but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer.
Language
South Africa has 11 official languages one of them being English. The majority of the population is able to speak and understand English even if it is not their first language. South Africans use a lot of local 'slang' - some of those you are more than likely to come into contact with are listed below:
- Howzit - A traditional South African greeting meaning "How are you?" or "How are things?"
- Boet - "Boet" is the Afrikaans word for "brother" and is often used as a term of affection between male friends.
- Café - the local corner shop selling milk, bread, newspaper and cigarettes etc
- Just now - If a South African tells you they will do something "just now", they mean they'll do it in the near future - not immediately.
- Lekker - An Afrikaans word meaning nice. It is often used in association with food, as in: "That meal was lekker."
- Now now - This is not intended to comfort but means shortly, as in: "I will be there now now."
- Rooibos - A popular South African tea made in the Cape. Rooibos is an Afrikaans word meaning "red bush". When people speak of rooibos they are referring to rooibos tea.
- Braai - the South African equivalent of a barbeque where meat is cooked over an open fire. A popular weekend and social pastime.
- Boerewors/Wors - a type of spicy sausage made from beef or lamb. Generally it is quite thick and is cooked on a braai.
Travel
Getting to South Africa
Johannesburg International Airport is the major international airport in South Africa receiving flights from all five continents. There are also direct international flights to Cape Town International. Flights from the UK and Europe are usually overnight with a flight from London to Johannesburg or Cape Town taking approximately 12-hours. Direct flights between the USA and Johannesburg are approximately 15-hours. South Africa has an excellent network of domestic carriers offering flights to all major city centres throughout South Africa. A flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town is 2-hours.
Travelling around South Africa
South Africa is a vast country and areas of interest are widespread. It is often best to consider combining both flying and driving to make the most of your time. As a rule, public transport is not reliable and it is advisable to hire a car to get around cities and attractions. If you would rather not drive long distances, consider one of the local bus companies such as Intercape or Greyhound - tickets can be booked at Computicket. The Baz Bus is an affordable hop-on-hop-off option for backpackers. Alternatively, join an organised tour to suit your interests and your schedule.
Recommended Shuttle Services
CONTACT DETAILS
Phone: +27 (0)12 346 0899
Voip Phone: +27 (0)87 095 9915
WhatsAPP: +27 82 748 8853
Fax: +27 (0)866 611 707
Email: info@ezshuttle.co.za
Recommended Travel Agent
Lerato Mokoma
Travel Consultant
Tel: 011 622 3840
lerato@dynamictravel.co.za
www.dynamictravel.co.za
Leisure, Series & MICE Groups
Guest from Far East, India, Australia, New Zealand, South America
t: +27 11 780 7854
e: asiapacific@suninternational.com
Guest from Continental Europe
t: +27 11 780 7808
e: ceurope@suninternational.com
Guest from North America, United Kingdom, Middle East, Africa
t: +27 11 780 7857
e: naukmea@suninternational.com
Guest from South Africa
t: +27 11 780 7891
e: grpresv@suninternational.com
CONTACT
Gugu Charlie, Conferences and events co-ordinator
E-mail: gugu@saimm.co.za
Tel: +27 11 538-0238, Web: www.saimm.co.za