Canada’s Ultra-Deep Mining Network (UDMN) says it “continues to make strides in solving the challenges that impact resource extraction in ultra-deep (below 2,500 m) environments launching a new Call for Proposals and Network Members to share the stage highlighting their innovative solutions and commercially viable products.

“The C$46 million NCE business-led network, now in its second year of operation, has become the leading expert in ultra-deep research and innovation. Under the management of CEMI – Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation, and key involvement from industry leaders, the UDMN currently manages 24 active projects in four strategic themes (Rock Stress Risk Reduction, Energy Reduction, Material Transport and Productivity and Improved Human Health and Effectiveness). These projects aim to amplify and expedite commercial value and enhance ultra-deep mining innovations in Canada and beyond.”

The UDMN has grown to include 44 Network Members from across Canada. This includes representation from the three deepest mines in Canada, including Kidd owned by Kidd Operations, a Glencore company, Creighton owned by Vale and LaRonde owned by Agnico Eagle Mines.

On December 1, network members participated in the first annual UDMN Symposium, providing members with an opportunity to engage with all network members; present high level project summaries; network with mining companies; and identify other potential synergies.

One Network Member reflected that the event “had precisely the right timbre and ‘network feel’ that it should. Most importantly, I thought that throughout the day UDMN developed an atmosphere of inclusion and made everyone feel that their participation was vital to the network.  It is certain that the event will engender a feeling of loyalty to the network for all involved, which will be instrumental in lifting every project team represented to aspire to delivery with the same professionalism as was exhibited by the UDMN team today.”

An industry led panel was assembled to facilitate discussion on technology trends affecting the mining industry today and on how mines implement new technologies. Panelists included: Zachary Mayer (Manager, Mine Technical Services) at Kidd Operations, Steve Runnalls (Manager, Mines Technical Services) at Vale, Ontario Operations, Shayne Wisniewski (General Manager of Mining Projects) at Sudbury Integrated Nickel Operations (Glencore), Douglas Morrison (President and CEO) at CEMI and moderator Roger Emdin (Vice President of Projects) at Harte Gold. UDMN members were given the opportunity to ask questions and debate issues, including pressing technological problems facing the deep underground mining industry; challenges in access to mine sites and industry support; change management in mine operations; and the types of return on investment that industry prioritizes.

Engaging mining companies continues to be a priority for the network. Following a successful Call for Proposals in 2014 that prioritised small and medium enterprises, suppliers, academia, research institutes and original equipment manufacturers, a 2015 Call for Proposals (CFP) has been issued to mining companies who are current members of the UDMN Industry Consultation Group. The CFP has two main drivers; to ensure Network projects are aligned with problems facing industry, and the chance to increase the level of collaboration between mining companies and other network members.

“Since launching the CFP on November 30 we have already begun to engage three new mining companies”, says Bora Ugurgel, UDMN’s Managing Director. “We look forward to expanding our portfolio of active projects and helping the mining industry accelerate research and development, increase investment in R&D and deploy proven innovative and advanced technologies. Innovation is even more critical during low commodity times and mining companies with this in mind will ultimately benefit in the long term.”

The UDMN is a national business-led NCE network, managed through CEMI, and supported by members of the mining, oil & gas industries, and with the active participation of small-to-medium sized enterprises, industry agencies, research facilities and academia.

Kidd notes that “extracting ore at 3 km below the earth’s surface requires the development and application of innovative processes, methods and technologies that are unique in the global mining sector:

• Cold stope system decreases temperatures at lower levels, and reduces electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
• Automated scoop trams increases safety and productivity
• Some of the world’s largest vent fans  provide ventilation-on-demand
• One of the largest fibre optic infrastructures in Northern Ontario used to communicate and remotely operate equipment 3 km underground.

“In addition, we regularly host and share deep mining data with international research bodies, academics and private technology/product developers.”  www.miningdeep.ca