Coal Person of the Year 2026

The Southern African Coal Processing Society Coal Person this year is Lafras Moolman. 

Lafras has made a sustained contribution to the South African coal processing industry over an extended career. His experience spans laboratory systems, plant operations, quality management, and technical leadership. His involvement in industry committees and continued consulting work demonstrate his ongoing contribution to the field.

Contribution to the SACPS

Lafras Moolman has contributed to the broader coal processing industry through participation in technical committees and industry initiatives. He served on the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) Technical Subcommittee representing organisations such as BHP Billiton, Total Coal, and Exxaro. He has also participated in industry initiatives such as Coaltech 20/20 and bursary committees, contributing to knowledge sharing and industry development.

Contribution to the Industry

Field of Design Lafras has extensive experience in coal processing plant design, optimisation, and improvement across multiple operations. His contributions include commissioning and optimisation of coal processing plants, implementation of froth flotation technologies (including conventional and column flotation), introduction of modular and mobile processing plants (Parnaby), participation in plant refurbishments such as Dorsfontein West, and implementation of plant improvements to enhance yield, efficiency, and product quality.

Supply of Service to the Industry

Lafras Moolman has held senior operational and technical roles within the coal industry, including Metallurgical General Manager at Exxaro, where he oversaw processing plants, projects, and surface infrastructure, and Operations Director at Fraser Alexander Mineral Processing, where he contributed to establishing a coal processing division. He also held various management roles at BHP Billiton, including Laboratory Manager, Plant Manager, Quality Manager, Process Manager, and Operations Manager. He is currently active as a consultant focusing on plant optimisation, due diligence, condition monitoring, quality control, sampling, and bias testing.

Education

Lafras has contributed to skills development and knowledge transfer through the training and mentoring of metallurgists and technical staff, as well as participation in bursary committees and industry initiatives. He completed Advanced Coal Preparation (CTC) as top student in 1985 and has undertaken various managerial and technical training programmes.

Local or International Publications No formal publications.

Lafras Moolman has contributed to industry knowledge through participation in technical committees, workshops, and international conferences.

Recognition of Contributions to the South African Coal Industry

Lafras Moolman has over 45 years of experience in the coal processing industry . His career includes leadership roles in major coal companies such as BHP Billiton, Fraser Alexander, and Exxaro. His contributions include the development and implementation of laboratory systems, involvement in Eskom-related quality control and bias testing, and implementation of plant improvements and operational strategies across multiple collieries. He continues to contribute to the industry through consulting services.

Summary Motivation

I cannot think of any person in South Africa with more experience, deeper knowledge, or greater passion for the coal industry than Lafras Moolman. As he approaches retirement, this award would be a fitting recognition and the cherry on top of a long and successful career. He is a highly deserving candidate for the SACPS Coal Person of the Year 2026 award.