Tag Archives: automation

5G underground networks receive Newmont’s seal of approval following Cadia trial

Automation, Base metals, Communications in mining, IoT, Mine operation news, Mining services, Precious metals, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Newmont Corporation is expanding its use of next generation 5G wireless networks to improve safety in underground mining following trial results from its Cadia mine in New South Wales, Australia.

In February last year, Newmont (Newcrest as it was then) announced a trial of 5G in partnership with Ericsson and Telstra Purple at its Cadia mine – one of the largest underground gold-copper mines in the world.

Before the trial, Cadia was limited to upload speeds of 20-30 megabits per second (Mbps) using Wi-Fi to operate autonomous equipment such as ore loaders and remote-controlled mining machines.

These Wi-Fi connections were unreliable and unpredictable when under load, according to Newmont. There was insufficient capacity to operate the required number of machines in the one area at the same time, particularly with the amount of video upload involved, and automation safety stops were regularly falsely triggered due to network packet loss.

Using Ericsson Private 5G, Newmont was able to demonstrate the ability to achieve upload speeds of around 90 Mbps along access drives and declines throughout the underground complex, and 150 Mbps upload and 500 Mbps download on all-important extraction drives, it says.

The connections underground were found to be persistent and highly dependable, resolving historic limitations experienced with Wi-Fi and providing the consistent performance essential for remote control and autonomous mining systems.

Newmont Chief Safety and Sustainability Officer, Suzy Retallack, said: “The trial results show the extraordinary potential of 5G to improve safety, increase the number of machines that can be operated on a single network and boost production efficiencies in underground mining.

“These trials are part of the new frontier of technology in mining – using innovation to make our people safer and our mines more productive.”

Newmont will now use 5G to roll out more autonomous fleet like drill rigs, graders and auto haul trucks as part of future mining operations, relying on 5G’s unique capacity and capability to facilitate and streamline operational capabilities while deploying additional safety systems like radars and collision avoidance to improve overall mine safety systems, it says.

Head of Private Cellular Networks from Ericsson, Manish Tiwari, said: “5G is enabling rapid global transformation of industry, supporting digitalisation and movement towards automated, more efficient, and safer operations across a number of sectors.

“Ericsson is proud to be partnering with Newmont on demonstrating the potential of 5G to the global mining sector.”

Trialling 5G New Radio (NR) technologies on the surface at Cadia as part of the same initiative also demonstrated that new 5G innovations, such as 64T64R Massive MIMO, beamforming and beam-steering provided a leap forward in available throughputs at the extended distances found in surface operations.

Newmont says it uses technology to make workers safer while improving efficiency. On the basis of the trial, 5G now has a firm place in Newmont’s communications strategies for Cadia and its other Tier One underground and surface mines across the world.

Following support for the Cadia 5G trial from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), Newmont has now applied to ACMA for Area Wide Licenses to extend and embed Newmont’s use of 5G technology across its Australian operations.

Newmont is now planning to expand the use of 5G networks across its global network of Tier One underground gold-copper mines.

Pronto to demo autonomous haulage tech at Heidelberg’s Lake Bridgeport quarry

Automation, Mine operation news, Mining services, , , , ,

Pronto’s Autonomous Haulage System (AHS) is set to be deployed at Heidelberg Materials North America’s Lake Bridgeport quarry in Texas, USA, following a successful pilot of the technology with Heidelberg in 2023.

The pilot in question was conducted in partnership with Komatsu North America, with the next phase also set to be on a Komatsu platform to include the integration of Komatsu Smart Quarry technologies. The latter technologies will enable enhanced data collection and analysis, as well as improved safety and productivity, according to Pronto.

A Silicon Valley-based autonomy pioneer, Pronto has designed its AHS to be the simplest, fastest to deploy, easiest to use, and most cost-effective solution in the market. It has been deployed in multiple sites across the world. It leverages advanced sensors, cameras and artificial intelligence to autonomously operate haul trucks in complex and dynamic environments.

Last year, Pronto announced a partnership with RAICO SA, a leading mining and forestry equipment sales and rental services provider in Chile, to scale mining and forestry autonomy in the country, while the company has also worked extensively with Bell on integrating the technology into its trucks.

Pronto said: “Pronto’s AHS is the industry’s most cost-effective solution to addressing the challenge of recruiting skilled operatives, while also increasing the utilisation of haul truck assets.”

MacLean and Sandvik making headway on automation zone interoperability

Automation, Communications in mining, IoT, Mining safety, Mining services, , , ,

Sandvik and MacLean have completed the first phase of a collaboration to provide mining companies with more options for expanding automation in the underground environment, they say.

MacLean and Sandvik are working together to improve automation zone interoperability of production and support fleets, with the installation of the Sandvik AutoMine® system at the MacLean Research & Training Facility and the demonstration of a surface-controlled MacLean utility vehicle, a BT5 Boom Truck, activating multiple AutoMine automation zones delimited with light curtain safety gates.

With this phase now complete, the first key steps in the companies’ interoperability collaboration have been successfully achieved: automation communications infrastructure installation and the testing of a piece of non-Sandvik mining equipment activating the safety gate system.

In a separate press release, Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions referred to its part of this solution as AutoMine Interoperable Access Control System (ACS), a new feature for its AutoMine Core underground system for autonomous mining operations. Designed to improve productivity and increase operational flexibility, this new capability builds on the proven AutoMine Flexible Safety Zone by enabling non-Sandvik, third-party autonomous equipment to operate seamlessly in AutoMine access-controlled isolated zones, it said.

The solution enables a mixed fleet of underground loaders, trucks, drills and auxiliary equipment to be managed with one seamless safety system, as long as third-party equipment designs conform to the functional safety requirements specified for AutoMine operations. Non-Sandvik equipment can be retrofitted with an AutoMine ACS Onboard Box to provide the needed interface between ACS and the machine’s safety circuit, according to the OEM.

AutoMine Interoperable ACS, Sandvik says, increases the flexibility between Sandvik automated equipment and third-party equipment by allowing access to a shared automated zone at different times. Each machine can be independently controlled by its own system while operating within the unified AutoMine Interoperable ACS system. This leverages optimised control of each OEM’s machine while maintaining a safer working environment.

Patrice Corneau, MacLean Director of Advanced Vehicles and Technology, said: “If we want to advance the mine of the future where an increasing amount and complexity of automation is available as an option for mining customers around the globe, we need to work differently. Realising that broader, longer-term goal will require collaboration between original equipment manufacturers in the industry, who historically have perceived each other primarily as competitors as opposed to mining technology development co-practitioners.

“This collaboration between MacLean and Sandvik embodies that new way of thinking about the mine of the future and how mining equipment manufacturers can help successfully deliver it to mining companies.”

Robert McEwan, Product Line Manager, Automation, Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, said: “While we are confident that customers will achieve optimal performance with Sandvik equipment, we understand the importance of maximising automation’s potential across all equipment, regardless of manufacturer. This technology enables mixed-fleet customers to benefit from enhanced safety and improved productivity with the support of AutoMine.”

Sleipner premieres fully electric, autonomous transport system for mines

Automation, Environmental, Mining events, Mining services, Power supply for mines, Sustainable mining, , , , ,

Sleipner Finland has, this week at The Electric Mine 2024, unveiled a new generation of fully electric and autonomous transport system for moving mining and construction equipment.

The world premiere of the new emission-free transport system took place on Tuesday in Perth, Western Australia, at the event, organised by International Mining Events. The first deliveries are planned for 2026.

The new autonomous and emission-free electric transport system is aimed at mines that already use automated equipment, such as drills, and therefore have the infrastructure to support autonomous solutions. Several patents are pending for Sleipner’s transport solution.

Autonomous mining requires all equipment to be automated – from the giant vehicles that transport blasted rock and the drills. The entire site can be operated and monitored remotely and safely without mining personnel having to work among the automated vehicles, Sleipner says.

“There are already dozens of autonomous mines around the world, and more are coming all the time,” Jukka Koponen, CEO of Sleipner Finland, says. “Australia is one of the pioneers. Currently, the big mining companies are the driving force in autonomous mining, in part due to their emission reduction targets. By 2030, the goal among mining companies is to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by half and, at the same time, automate operations as much as possible. We want to be a pioneer in this development and a market leader in mobilisation solutions.”

He continued: “Several large equipment manufacturers have already been interested in our new transport system concept, and cooperation discussions are currently underway. We plan to deliver our first autonomous and electric transport system as early as 2026.”

The new transport system that has been unveiled by Sleipner Finland is battery-powered, which enables the use of renewable energy for the autonomous transport of mining and construction equipment.

Teijo Höylä, CTO at Sleipner Finland, explained: “Our new transport system makes it possible to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions completely when transporting equipment, whereas current solutions consume significant amounts of diesel. In the future, it will be possible to move machines with battery-powered, environmentally-friendly solutions. At the same time, the productivity of the equipment being transported will also improve by about 5%, while life cycle costs will decrease by up to 10%.”

The company says that the new autonomous and electric transport system will be scaled to different weight classes, and the autonomous control system interface will be brand independent.

Höylä says: “The autonomous and electric transport system can also be connected to the ecosystems of other OEMs since it has an open interface. Versatility and future needs have been taken into account in the design. The transport system can be used to transport, for example, drills, bulldozers and also battery packs at mines. In this way, battery power can be provided on a large scale, which helps in the electrification of mines and the efficient operation of battery-powered equipment.”

Like all other Sleipner Finland products, the new lowbed trailer is designed to operate reliable in temperatures ranging from -40 to +50°C, which is taken into account in the high-quality materials and components. Components from well-known manufacturers are also used, ensuring maintenance is as smooth as possible globally.

Sleipner Finland says it continues to grow steadily, with new products and market openings having – and will continue to have – a growing impact on employment both in production and in its globally expanding cooperation network, as well as in the future in connection with its autonomous control systems. Sleipner Finland’s most recent market openings have been in Poland and Canada. In addition to the Nordic countries, Sleipner Finland already has a strong presence in markets such as Australia and Africa.

Koponen emphasises: “The new transport system supports our growth strategy. We are investing significantly in product development and our cooperation network. Our goal is to be the strongest trendsetter within our own narrow field as a provider of transportation solutions for mining equipment. Thanks to our innovative R&D, we are able to serve the mining companies of the future in their emission reduction targets and operational efficiency.”

In addition to reducing emissions, the automation of mines is also a solution to the prevailing labour shortages in the sector. Technological advances also have an impact on occupational wellbeing.

Höylä explains: “Finding sufficient personnel for mines is a global challenge. Automated machines and equipment, such as our new transport system, enable mines to be operated by remote control. In this way, personnel do not have to be exposed to dust and vibration, which improves their wellbeing. Similarly, personnel do not have to work in the field among large machines, which increases safety. If a worker needs to enter the area, all activities must be stopped completely within a certain safety radius. Automated equipment, on the other hand, can work with each other with only certain limitations.”

Michael Wright on Thiess’ sustainable mining mission

Automation, Environmental, Mining mergers and acquisitions, Mining services, Sustainable mining, , , , , , , , , , ,

It has been a busy few months for mining services provider, Thiess, having announced a planned acquisition of Australia-based underground metals business PYBAR Holdings Limited and its 100% subsidiary Pybar Mining Services Pty Ltd, plus released a comprehensive sustainability report detailing its progress towards its 2025 decarbonisation target.

The company also celebrated its 90th anniversary earlier this month, paying respects to its origins as a small farming and roadworks company, Thiess Bros, which began operating in rural Australia in 1934.

IM recently put some questions to Michael Wright, Thiess Group Executive Chair and CEO, on the company’s sustainability plans and what PYBAR could bring to the group.

IM: How do you see the addition of PYBAR complementing your sustainability aims/targets? Has PYBAR been engaged on underground mining services contracts looking to leverage low- (diesel-electric/hybrid) or no-carbon (battery) solutions for load and haul, for example?

MW: The acquisition of PYBAR further accelerates our strategy to diversify our commodities portfolio and bring a increasingly greater focus on metals and minerals. PYBAR has significant expertise developing underground copper and gold projects, such as the Eloise Mine, owned by AIC, and the Carrapateena Mine, owned now by BHP.

Michael Wright, Thiess Group Executive Chair and CEO

We are currently planning and engaging with PYBAR, prior to them joining the Thiess Group once the customary sale conditions are satisfied and the acquisition process is finalised.

Thiess Group companies all play a part in efforts to improve the sustainability of mining globally, and to achieve our target of net zero Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions from diesel combustion by 2050. Once PYBAR is part of the Group, we will work with them on initiatives to achieve this target.

IM: How do you see your new underground offering competing with the likes of Barminco, Byrnecut and Macmahon? What will your unique proposition be to the market?

MW: One of PYBAR’s key competitive advantages is their long-standing client relationships. They have a well-deserved reputation for being an experienced underground metals and minerals hard-rock mining specialist.

Thiess currently operates underground in Mongolia, and having PYBAR as part of the Thiess Group will re-establish our presence in the Australian underground mining market, and enable us to expand our service offering to our clients.

Thiess Group companies will work with PYBAR to optimise efficiencies and leverage opportunities from our combined strengths and client relationships, while maintaining and growing the PYBAR business.

IM: Are there any technology areas that PYBAR has been involved with in the underground mining space that complement your own surface mining work with automation and electrification?

MW: Thiess has been on an autonomous mining journey since 2012, and today our fleet includes 21 autonomous haul trucks, nine autonomous drills and six semi-autonomous dozers. Through MACA also, the group has progressed vendor-agnostic autonomy and electrification. So as a group, we have a strong team and strong focus on both autonomy and electrification.

Similarly, PYBAR has been on a technology journey. In 2019, they deployed two Cat R1700 underground loaders at Dargues Gold Mine to prepare for its advanced underground automation. The new machines were equipped with Cat’s next generation Command for underground technology, enabling the machines to be remotely controlled from the surface from early-2020 – realising significant productivity, efficiency and safety gains.

There is significant opportunity bringing PYBAR into the Thiess Group.

IM: Following the publication of your 2023 sustainability report, can you tell me anymore about the hybrid excavator trial you are planning in Indonesia? Also, what vehicles are to be involved in the battery-powered light/medium trucks in Australia work you are due to carry out this year? What about the plans for MACA’s fleet retrofit solutions in Australia? Are these solutions soon to start up at Karlawinda?

MW: Our hybrid excavator trial started last month at one of our Indonesian projects. Two 30 t hybrid excavators are being tested as part of our commitment to reduce our emissions. We’re monitoring the trial progress, and will provide an update in our 2024 sustainability report.

We have two light battery-electric trucks due to arrive in Australia in coming weeks, which will be deployed to two of our projects, and are progressing the installation of the charging infrastructure at the selected sites.

Work also continues at MACA to develop a retrofitting solution for existing fleet to reduce emissions at a lower initial capital cost and in a shorter time frame than new electric haul trucks. We’re continuing detailed engineering studies, with the plan to deliver the first project in coming months.

IM: Anything else to add on the topic of mining technology as it relates to your net-zero journey?

MW: Our ambition is to achieve net zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and Scope 3 emissions from diesel combustion in our operated fleet. We are pleased with our progress to date and are on track to meet our 2025 Scope 1 and 2 emissions target (excludes Scope 1 and 2 emissions from MACA civil projects. We will look to develop a Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction target for MACA civil division in 2024).

We continue to invest in and trial a range of transitional lower carbon technologies with gas and hydrogen trickle feed options. In 2021, we joined the Hydra Consortium, which is investigating the use of renewable hydrogen to power mining fleets. After construction and trial of their first hydrogen fuel cell-based powertrain prototype, Hydra is now working on phase 3 of the trial to continue to improve and test the technology.

As well, the Thiess Group recently became Toyota’s first customer for its locally-assembled hydrogen fuel cell stationary power generator, which we plan to trial in our mining operations in New South Wales.

We are also exploring dual-fuel vehicles. In 2023, Thiess successfully converted and trialled a dual-fuel Caterpillar 793F at a mine site in the Bowen Basin, with demonstrated reductions in emissions and diesel consumption. We continue to explore expansion opportunities for this and other technology trials.

FIRSTGREEN Industries launches ROCKEAT, the electric, cabinless skid steer loader

Automation, Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining services, Power supply for mines, , , , ,

FIRSTGREEN Industries, the manufacturer of what it says is the first and only commercially available all-electric, zero-emissions skid steer loader, has launched ROCKEAT, the company’s newest line of electric, cabinless skid steer loaders.

Designed with a low clearance, 360° camera and remote operability, ROCKEAT machines redefine safety and efficiency in mining, construction and other hazardous industries, it says.

ROCKEAT is designed to prioritise operator safety through its cabinless design and remote control operability, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on job sites. As an all-electric skid steer, ROCKEAT produces zero carbon emissions, minimum operating fluids and near-silent operation, transforming the industry standard of loud, dangerous and dirty diesel-powered machinery into a safer, healthier and environmentally sustainable solution, FIRSTGREEN says.

“We are thrilled to introduce ROCKEAT skid steers to the US market, which represents a significant leap forward in safety and sustainability for traditionally dangerous, high-emission industries like construction and mining,” Marcus Suess, Chief Operating Officer for FIRSTGREEN Industries in North America, said. “With continued national support to accelerate the expansion of critical mineral mining projects on home soil, we take great pride in offering a solution that not only addresses pressing environmental concerns but also contributes to the resurgence of homegrown industry.”

ROCKEAT machines are charged using a standard 110 V or 220 V outlet, with no specialised charging equipment or infrastructure required. They are also equipped with a battery management system that can sustain up to eight hours of continuous operation.

The machines are specifically designed with a low profile to navigate and function efficiently in confined or restricted spaces, providing manoeuvrability and durability. Machine precision is achieved through four individual speeds for both hydraulic and travel functionalities. These can be further modified by the operator. And ROCKEAT functionality allows operators to finetune each of the four travel speeds for optimal performance in specific tasks.

The new ROCKEAT line includes 700 and 1200 models that are 67 in (1.7 m) and 71 in wide, respectively, and compatible with lead-acid and lithium batteries. With a maximum power of 3 x 36.2 hp (27 kW), maximum torque of 3 x 89 foot-pounds, and load capacity of 1,500 to 3,300 pounds, ROCKEAT sets a new standard with unparalleled features, versatility and performance capabilities, the company says.

EACON banks more finance for automation mission as it nears 1,000 truck milestone

Automation, IoT, Mining equipment, Mining finance, Mining software, Sustainable mining, , , , , , , ,

EACON says it has received another $44.5 million in Series C++ financing, led by Zijin Mining and Minxi Xinghang, enabling it to scale up its technology, product R&D and mining area operation management as part of its autonomous haulage developments.

Including series C and series C+ financing, EACON has now completed equity financing of $97.3 million within six months.

Founded in May 2018, EACON calls itself a leading autonomous haulage solution company that empowers the mining industry with the most advanced technology. By combining cutting-edge autonomous driving technology with strong on-site operational capabilities, EACON provides an OEM-agnostic, field-proven solution for autonomous haulage and zero-emission truck engineering, it says.

Currently, EACON has deployed autonomous truck fleets in four of China’s top 10 open-pit coal mines. As of February 2024, there are 304 trucks running autonomously with a total mileage of 6.5 million kilometers, ensuring safe operation for six consecutive years, it claims.

Zijin Mining, meanwhile, is a leading global multinational mining group mainly engaged in mining copper, gold, zinc, silver and lithium.

Chen Jinghe, Chairman of Zijin Mining Group, said the advancement of ‘carbon peak and carbon neutrality’ objectives have sparked significant transformation within the global mining sector, where autonomous driving technology, coupled with new energy trucks, are playing a pivotal role.

Zijin Mining will leverage its industry resources alongside EACON’s solution for its domestic and overseas mine sites, according to EACON.

Minxi Xinghang’s business scope spans mineral metallurgy, equity investment, site construction, new energy and materials, water conservancy and power, and transportation operations. Chairman, Li Jian, expressed aspirations to seize additional business prospects both domestically and internationally alongside EACON in the future.

EACON has been actively promoting the development of zero carbon mining. As of February 2024, EACON had deployed 245 battery-electric and hybrid-battery haulage trucks. In 2023, EACON developed a zero-emission, fully-autonomous haulage fleet for a sand and gravel aggregate mine in Fushan, Shandong. The fleet has reduced carbon emissions by over 2,200 t while operating safely and stably for the past 350 days, it says.

Zhang Lei, co-Founder and Chairman of EACON, stated that the successful completion of the $97.3 million financing reflects the positive recognition of EACON by the market and industry. Zijin has many mines located on plateaus, which are not only remote but also feature low oxygen levels due to the high altitude. This environment can cause discomfort for mining workers unaccustomed to it. EACON says it hopes to provide solutions for mining operations in these areas through autonomous driving technology in the future.

By the end of 2024, EACON expects the number of deployed autonomous trucks to reach 1,000. This fleet expansion is likely to come from EACON’s steadfast deployment of new energy autonomous driving vehicles, enabling mines to achieve sustainable low-carbon operations, as well as the retrofit of existing fleets, providing drive-by-wire control kits and solutions for autonomous driving systems. Currently, a drive-by-wire kit for a Komatsu HD785-7 truck is under design.

In 2024, EACON plans to launch a pilot project in Australia to expand its global market.

Bell B40E

CPI, Sibelco, Bell and xtonomy launch UK-first autonomous ADT pilot project

Automation, Industrial minerals, IoT, Mining equipment, Mining services, Mining software, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sibelco’s china-clay Cornwood quarry in Devon, UK, has, today, played host to the launch of an autonomous ADT designed to help future proof the effectiveness and competitiveness of extractive operations such as mining within the minerals and aggregates industry.

The development of autonomous driving capability opens the door to a range of operational efficiency, safety, environmental and employee benefits to underpin the sector going forward, according to the compaies involved.

The UK-first project was initially conceptualised by Chepstow Plant International (CPI) and Bell Equipment following long-term trials between Bell Equipment and technology platform specialist, xtonomy.

CPI identified Sibelco, a long-term valued strategic customer, as the ideal partner to bring the project to reality in a live-working quarry environment. Collectively, the four stakeholders have collaborated to develop and launch a quarry transportation proposition that has its eyes on the future.

The launch event for the venture today saw key industry guests invited to witness a full demonstration of the new autonomous solution within a working quarry setting. Presentations highlighted the on-board hardware and software technologies, including radar sensors from indurad, high-precision GPS, multi-channel communication systems and on-board processing hardware. They have been incorporated by xtonomy into a standard B40E dump truck to create an Autonomous-Ready drive by wire B40E solution.

As a result, the combination offers true and safe autonomy with a resilient navigation system that dynamically plans ADT paths and predictively controls the vehicle around the entire quarry site, the companies say.

Among the key objectives with this pilot scheme will be to demonstrate the potential to reduce vehicular incidents and subsequent accidents as well as upskilling then the existing workforce to further support the future of quarry operations.

Operational efficiencies will be enhanced as the autonomous ADTs are able to operate for longer periods during the working day, deliver highly accurate tipping results and ensure that the existing quarry shift patterns can be tailored to improve productivity. Further benefits will be available thanks to improved component life and reduced wear and tear on the Bell B40E dump truck, leading to improved asset availability for the quarry, they say.

On-board hardware and software technologies, including radar sensors from indurad, high-precision GPS, multi-channel communication systems and on-board processing hardware have been incorporated by xtonomy into a standard B40E dump truck to create an Autonomous-Ready drive by wire B40E solution

Environmental advantages will also be leveraged through the AI-enabled transformation. With enhanced driving accuracy and efficiency across the quarry, less fuel will be consumed, helping to ensure reductions in carbon emissions from a a quarry’s daily activities.

To further enhance the autonomous ADTs impact on the environment, the Bell B40E uses HVO instead of diesel.

John Corcoran, Managing Director, at CPI, said: “CPI is delighted to be involved in this exciting and UK-first collaboration; one that is focused on a next generation adventure to ensure UK quarries continue to maximise operational efficiencies and remain competitive. It is important that stakeholders come together in this way to drive advancements and support the industry’s future prospects, whilst continually remain committed to our safety standards and net-zero commitments.

“We are sure that this pilot project will deliver both progress, as well as further challenges. Both of which will provide the pathway towards the ultimate goal.”

Ben Uphill, Director Operations – Kingsteignton Cluster at quarry-owner, Sibelco, says: “We envisage many benefits from having access to this sector-first autonomous ADT solution. The minerals & aggregates sector must embrace technology as a way of continually delivering improvements across our daily operations and cost base. At Sibelco we strive for continuous improvement, with a focus on safety, and the environment through energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. Automation is used in many parts of our operations and business to maximise efficiency and to also manage areas of skills shortage. This has been a fantastic example of collaborative ethos from all partners and has resulted in a safe and productive autonomous driving setup for a key part of our operations.”

Nic Grout, Managing Director at Bell Equipment, said: “Bell Equipment is a leading supplier in the ADT market and as such is proud to be part of this exciting project. Its success can help transform the future of the quarrying sector and we are pleased that our evolutionary E-series and the B40E dump truck sits at the heart of this innovative project. The ability to transform our market leading vehicle through added technology functionality into a safe, robust, effective, and autonomous quarrying asset is welcome and sets the standard for future developments across our vehicle range.”

Christian Riedel, CEO at xtonomy, says: “Supporting the quarrying sector through the appliance of result-orientated automation platform solutions is a key commitment for the business. Expectations and needs are changing as the industry looks to transition to a future where improved efficiency, better safety and targeted environmental considerations are key priorities. Our AI technology incorporated onto the already successful Bell B40E dump truck evolves it to a next generation payload transportation blueprint.”

Sandvik brings automation and connectivity elements to 800i series cone crushers

Automation, Comminution of minerals, Mineral processing, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , ,

Sandvik is connecting its 800i series cone crushers with the latest Automation and Connective System, ACS-c 5 as it looks to continue a design philosophy based on evolution of parts, materials and technologies to improve the reliability, availability and productivity customers rely on.

“The upgraded 800i crushers with new ACS-c 5 are a natural next step in setting the bar for crushing,” Javier Valdeavellano, Lifecycle Manager 800i cone crushers, said. “Their ideal combination of high crushing forces, reliability and simplicity make them easier to operate, manage, maintain and service – leading to productivity and uptime gains that are game changers for operational performance.”

The crushers combine robust mechanical design with powerful automation to better support diverse operational roles, Sandvik says. Having access to operational insights, combined with simplicity and reliability, ensure the team’s ability to run a smooth operation while reaching their targets.

Sandvik 800i crushers are designed from the ground up to maximise tonnage of the desired end product. By selecting the right chamber configuration and setting the crusher program for the automation system, operators can simply start crushing.

Sandvik said: “Simplicity of mechanical design is key to maximum reliability and availability. Sandvik 800i crushers have evolved with new mechanical and automation advantages that simplify service and troubleshooting, improve safety, and optimise performance while minimising downtime.”

Upgraded 800i crushers target installed inefficiency in operating mines, as well as in greenfields. For example, in flowsheets including three-stage crushing and conventional grinding, assisting SAG/AG circuits with pebble crushing, and optimising particle size distribution for lump ores and heap leach applications. The 800i crushers are also suitable in high pressure grinding roll circuits. They crush more and deliver finer particle sizes to the downstream processes, according to Sandvik.

800i crushers are ready to be connected to the SAM by Sandvik cloud-based digital assistant, the company’s evolving data capture and analysis service supporting operational excellence in crushing and screening plants.

Ali Jumaa, Digital Solution Specialist at Sandvik, said: “SAM collects information from all your connected Sandvik equipment to provide a complete overview of your entire operation. Look at the status of your connected equipment, communicate across teams, view alerts and notifications, proactively order spare parts and much more. The new SAM mobile app for iOS and Android allows you to have access to crusher data and insights in your pocket.”

Sandvik to deliver advanced automation system at Codelco El Teniente’s Andesita project

Automation, Base metals, Mine operation news, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , ,

Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions is further expanding its strong automation partnership with Codelco, receiving a major order for its AutoMine® load and haul solution for the Andesita project at El Teniente mine in Chile.

Following multiple automation solutions orders from Codelco in 2023, Sandvik will implement an advanced automation system and deliver a new automated Toro™ LH621i loader during 2024.

“El Teniente mine is on its way to becoming the underground operation with the highest level and most intensive use of automated equipment in the world,”  Rodrigo Andrades, El Teniente Mine Manager, said. “To sustain this process, we require suppliers with a high level of commitment and collaboration in this objective.”

David Hallett, Vice President, Automation at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Codelco yet again, this time delivering our leading AutoMine technology to enhance safety, efficiency and productivity in the new Andesita project. This contract reinforces our position as a trusted partner in mine automation and our commitment to meeting Codelco’s evolving needs.”

The contract includes training, workshops and essential components for comprehensive lifecycle support, as well as scalability terms for the purchase and delivery of additional Toro LH621i loaders and automation systems for additional tunnels through 2028.

“As a leading OEM in the transformation to safer and more sustainable mining operations, we value Codelco’s continued trust in Sandvik and look forward to continuing our commitment to grow our partnership,” Ricardo Pachon, Vice President, Sales South Cone and Andean at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, said.