Mining is an industry that thrives on precision, efficiency, and resilience. In Namibia’s south-western desert region, Rosh Pinah Zinc Mine is undergoing a major expansion, with plans to significantly increase production output over the next five years. To support this growth, the mine required additional water storage for both process operations and potable use to cater for an expanding workforce. Partnering with DRA Global, an international leader in mining engineering and project delivery, SBS Tanks was chosen to provide a robust, custom-engineered water storage solution.
For more than four decades, DRA Global has been delivering world-class engineering, project management, and operations solutions to the mining and minerals sector. With offices across Africa, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, DRA has a reputation for excellence and integrity. Their values – Safety, Courage, Excellence, People Engagement, Trust, and Integrity – align strongly with the SBS commitment to quality, safety, and customer success, making this partnership a natural fit.
To meet Rosh Pinah’s long-term expansion goals, SBS supplied and installed two mining water tanks:
• ST27/08 Process Water Tank – 2.2 million litres
• ST19/04 Mining Water Tank – 555,000 litres
These tanks were designed to support critical mining functions, including mineral processing, dust suppression, and potable water supply for the mine’s growing workforce.
Process water is the lifeblood of mining operations. By securing reliable storage capacity, Rosh Pinah can maintain operational efficiency, avoid costly downtime, and implement more sustainable water management practices by storing and reusing process water. View our Mining tank range here.
From the outset, the SBS engineering team worked closely with DRA and the mine’s project team to ensure all requirements were met. Custom drawings, structural calculations, and seismic design options were developed to suit the unique conditions of the site.
Health and safety compliance was a top priority. Our SHEQ team aligned SBS’s detailed site file documentation with DRA’s rigorous mining safety standards, covering:
• Risk assessments, fall protection plans, and incident procedures
• Installer certifications and fitness documentation
• Manufacturing quality plans and inspection reports, with client witness approvals
• Full databook with material certifications, NDT testing, and compliance records
This ensured complete transparency and confidence at every stage of the project.
Local civil partners constructed reinforced ring beams according to SBS specifications, which were inspected and signed off before tank erection began. Using the SBS proprietary jacking system, both tanks were installed efficiently at ground level, reducing risks associated with working at height and ensuring compliance with strict mining HSE protocols.
The result was a smooth, rapid installation process with minimal disruption to ongoing mining operations.
The installation of the SBS tanks has given Rosh Pinah Mine:
• Operational continuity – reliable water storage ensures mining processes run without interruption.
• Scalability – future-proofing capacity to support workforce and production growth.
• Cost efficiency – reduced reliance on external water procurement.
• Sustainability – improved water reuse and reduced environmental impact.
Most importantly, this project strengthens the long-term viability of one of Namibia’s key mining operations, delivering economic and community benefits in the region.
By partnering with DRA Global, SBS Tanks showcased its ability to deliver safe, compliant, and future-ready water storage solutions for the mining industry. At Rosh Pinah, the synergy of DRA’s engineering excellence and SBS’s proven tank technology has laid the foundation for sustained growth, efficiency, and environmental responsibility in one of Namibia’s most important mining hubs.
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SBS Tanks is Africa’s leading manufacturer and supplier of modular steel panel water storage tanks fitted with an internal liquid storage liner. With offices in Durban, Johannesburg & Cape Town, our factory services all provinces within South Africa and the SADC region. With ISO accreditation (ISO 45001 and ISO 9001) collaborating with a trusted supplier like SBS Tanks East Africa, can offer professional advice and a variety of premium tank alternatives to satisfy your various needs.
Contact Shaun, HOD Global Exports or the sales team today and simply Request a quote here.
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