Supporting The Evolution Of Electrification

This technology transformation is not only an engineering challenge. Support for adopters is needed throughout the lifecycle, from planning to end of life, while stringent yet flexible concepts and plans need to be in place, even if the needs they address will only present themselves years in the future. Taking advantage of the breadth of experience offered by Normet and other OEMs makes the implementation of this lifecycle support process easier than one might think.

Full cycle support

In terms of the electrification of mining spaces, there are multiple phases in the transformation and adoption story. The first step has been to answer basic questions about electrification and battery power – is it reliable, is it safe, and is it productive? Overall, the adoption of electrification and battery power in mining has become more accepted as similar pathways have been pursued in other well-known industries, such as the automobile industry. For companies, this might mean that they become less hesitant in pursuing the technology, even if they do not yet have dedicated personnel in this field. In mining also, to an extent, these issues have been resolved, and early adopters of the technology are generally in a position to answer the questions listed earlier in the affirmative.

From Normet’s point of view, it is essential to support every step of the transformation cycle. Mining operators need to perform comprehensive assessments and benefit from planning support at the infrastructure level that helps ensure productive strategies. Then, when the technology is known to be safe and efficient, and is suitable for a given project, there is the need for more detailed calculations concerning payback times and returns on investment. In the business environment in which mining operates, investment cycles tend to run over longer periods. Because new technology also takes time to research and develop, how these criteria can be met is only evident now, after electrification projects have already been implemented successfully in mines.

Finally, when the decision has been made to invest in electrification, then practical operations and their management must be implemented. Aspects such as safe operation, safety procedures, and maintenance are large topics in their own right. As more companies take these steps, the overall process becomes easier and mass adoption more likely.

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