Leading projects, engineering and consulting firm, Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM), has been recognised for innovation in truckless mining (in-pit crushing and conveying or IPCC) with two industry awards. SKM was recognised for achievements in truckless mining systems, recognising the significant sustainability benefits of this approach.

Santo Rizzuto, SKM’s General Manager, Mining and Metals, said the company was delighted with the recognition of these two awards. “It’s a fantastic achievement for SKM and reinforces our world-leading status in this field. SKM has raised the standard and expectations for efficient mine development and operations globally, where truckless mining provides a viable economic solution,” Rizzuto said.

Truckless mining systems provide an alternative to the traditional truck and shovel operation and offer a valuable solution to project challenges such as safety, carbon emissions, costs of operating and maintaining large truck fleets and air and noise pollution.

SKM has established a Truckless Mining Centre of Excellence in Brisbane to add value to client projects through assessing the best options – economically, socially and environmentally – for the materials handling needs of a project.

Through cost-benefit analysis, SKM is able to demonstrate the valuable contribution these systems can make to a project, particularly for projects with long haulage distances, by reducing the reliance on trucks and hence improving safety, the carbon footprint of the mine, operating costs and air and noise emissions.

IPCC technology is being explored globally by SKM for projects in South Africa, Papua New Guinea, Australia, South America and West Africa.

Rizzuto highlighted that SKM had developed IPCC skills over the past decade and the team was already exploring future possible innovations in automation and remote-controlled mining applications, which will further revolutionise the safe and sustainable operation of the mines of tomorrow.