As open-pit mining is likely coming to an end at Venetia by 2021, De Beers began planning a US$2 billion underground extension project back in 2013, which could potentially extend the mine life to 2046.

The miner is expecting to start producing carats from underground mining in 2022 and to advance to full production in 2025.

To achieve this, the project team needs suitable, high-performance technology.

Metso said the company approached it to deliver two primary jaw crushers and several feeders.

All the equipment will be installed underground, which is a very challenging installation, especially given the shaft constraints (dimensions) and weight limitations for transportation underground.

De Beers decided on Metso's Nordberg C Series jaw crusher range, because the pinned and bolted design of the crusher allows for disassembly.

"This enhances ease of transportation and installation, especially where there are critical space constraints such as an underground installation - as is the case with this project," Metso explained.

The Metso apron feeders that were chosen are used for extracting or feeding ores that are wet, sticky, dry or even frozen.

The order was booked in the September quarter of 2019.