Photo by Creamer Media's Marleny Arnoldi

JA Engineering (JAE), an original-equipment manufacturer, has unveiled its latest underground mining equipment, the JAE38 Wildcub. According to CEO Matimba Mahange, this locally manufactured machine reflects the expertise and craftsmanship of JAE's design and technology team. The JAE38 Wildcub is a radio remote-controlled continuous mining machine that utilizes its weight to achieve high cutting power for enhanced productivity. Drawing on the design principles of its predecessor, the JAE42 Wildcat, this machine is suitable for hard cutting "room and pillar" coal mining but can be adapted for softer rock applications. It can cut areas ranging from 1.6 meters to 3.8 meters in height, with a minimum tramming height of 1.45 meters and a cutter width of 3.6 meters.

One notable feature is the improved over-torque protection for the cutter-head, accompanied by convenient motor access and hand-hold points for the cutter boom. Currently, a R100-million JAE38 Wildcub is operational at Overlooked Colliery's Forzando North coal mine in Bethal, Mpumalanga, while an order has been placed by a mining company in India, with shipping scheduled to begin in late June. Approximately 70% to 80% of the components for the JAE38 Wildcub are locally manufactured or sourced, with the remaining portion, particularly electronics, being imported.

Having established a strong market share in integrated engineering offerings over its 37-year history, JAE plans to expand its complete fleet solutions for underground mining equipment, including continuous miners, shuttle cars, roof bolters, and feeder breakers. The company aims to provide not only products but also engineering advisory services, transforming into a productivity partner for its customers. JAE foresees potential growth in orders from India and Australia, two thriving coal mining markets. To accommodate this expansion, JAE relocated from a 5,000 m2 premises in Jet Park to a 20,000 m2 facility in Anderbolt in December 2022. The new facility allows for research and development of surface mining equipment and increased production capacity. Mahange intends to increase employment beyond the current 250 staff members and drive revenue growth by enhancing competitiveness and developing new innovations.