Advancing Mining Efficiency

The mining industry has seen tremendous advancements in automation, driven by the development of sensor technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and modern software frameworks. These innovations have contributed to a more appealing return on investment (ROI) of automation projects, especially with retrofitted automation systems. These systems allow existing equipment to be upgraded, rather than requiring new investments, making automation more accessible and sustainable to a broader range of companies.

Autonomous load-haul-dump (LHD) machines, for example, can operate during shift changes. Starting the mucking process right after blasting significantly boosts efficiency. With this fully autonomous automation, the first 100 t of muck can be loaded and hauled to the ore pass, crusher, or dump truck, before the new shift arrives at the face. Automation also plays a key role in improving safety by reducing the need for human workers to be exposed to hazardous environments. Also, with automated transportation of spare parts or other goods, miners can be freed up to focus on more valuable tasks. As automation technologies continue to advance in terms of cost-efficiency and robustness, their role in shaping the future of mining will only continue to grow.

How technological developments facilitate automation in mining

The mining industry is capitalising on the benefits of technology advancements from the road-going automotive vehicle developments of recent years. Assistance systems like lane-holding and distance control, which are now commonplace in mid-level cars, are finding increasing applications in mining vehicles as demand for these features rises.

Several recent technological developments have played a crucial role in facilitating the adoption of automation in mining. More affordable and robust light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and radar sensors, along with dust-resistant localisation technologies, have enhanced the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of autonomous mining machines. These innovations allow mining vehicles to operate efficiently in dusty and challenging underground environments, where traditional technologies might struggle to maintain performance.

Mining environments are particularly well-suited for automation, due to their controlled and low-traffic nature. Limited human interaction and the spatial constraints of mining sites create ideal conditions for machines that can operate autonomously, offering safer overall operations and improved efficiency in day-to-day operations. These technological advancements make mining automation not only feasible, but also highly beneficial for the mining industry.

 

This is a preview of an article that was originally published in the April 2025 issue of Global Mining Review.

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