The Yaouré Gold Mine has strengthened its maintenance capabilities through specialised on-site training for its team, focusing on the critical Grove GMK5150L all-terrain crane.
This crane is key to maintaining operations, especially during plant shutdowns when efficient repairs are essential to minimise production downtime.
Facing tough site conditions and limited technical support, the mine enlisted the expertise of Paterson Simons, Manitowoc’s West Africa distributor. Paterson Simons partnered with Manitowoc’s training team from Germany to bring in experienced crane instructor Mirco Minoccheri. With nearly 20 years of experience, Minoccheri provided hands-on training over two weeks, covering essential topics such as braking system faults and telescope failures.
The program focused on the crane’s pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems, helping the nine-member maintenance team gain a comprehensive understanding of crane operations. This approach moved the team beyond reliance on error codes, enabling them to diagnose and fix issues more effectively.
Practical exercises addressed real challenges like moisture-related telescope failures and humidity-induced brake warnings. “The crane is vital for the mine, especially during shutdowns,” said Minoccheri. “Reducing downtime directly impacts production, making effective maintenance crucial.”
Thanks to this training, the maintenance crew is now better prepared to handle equipment issues independently, reducing the need for external support and ensuring smoother operations at the Yaouré Gold Mine.