Palabora Mine

Draco Group successfully executed one of South Africa’s most complex demolition projects by safely toppling a structurally compromised 107-metre converter stack at Palabora Mine, situated within the Kruger National Park. Built in 1960 and showing severe instability, the stack posed major safety, operational, and environmental risks. Conventional dismantling was not possible due to space constraints and surrounding infrastructure. Using advanced technology, including precision-drilled blast holes, diamond rope cutting, 3D digital modelling and drone surveillance, Draco Group brought the stack down within a narrow-planned corridor without harming nearby assets, wildlife or the environment.

The project achieved zero incidents, injuries or environmental damage, with rubble cleared and steel recycled within 48 hours. Stakeholder engagement, local job creation and strict safety measures were central to the process. This milestone marks the tallest and most unstable stack ever demolished in South Africa in a live smelting environment and showcases Draco Group’s leadership in safe, environmentally responsible and technically advanced demolition solutions.