Automated Mining Systems in South Africa
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Today, almost all mines are equipped with some automated mining system. There’s no question that automation improves efficiency and reduces production costs. But like anything else, implementing such technology has pros and cons. Before investing in an automated mining system, an operator needs to evaluate its pros and cons to determine if it will benefit that particular operation. If you’re thinking about implementing an automated mining system at your mine, read on to learn more about the different types of systems available, their advantages and disadvantages, and what you should consider before making a final decision.
What are the different types of automated mining systems?
First, look at the different automated mining systems currently in use. The main difference between these systems is their equipment to perform the mining operations.
– Wheel-based systems: Trucks, either remote-controlled or autonomous, are used to transport the materials. These systems can transport the mined product over longer distances.
– Bucket-wheel systems: These systems use a combination of buckets and a wheel system to transport materials. An example of a bucket-wheel system is the material handling system used at the Johnson-Shovel open pit mine.
– Fully-mechanized systems: These systems use heavy machinery like excavators, front-end loaders, and shovels to perform all mining operations. This is the most complex type of automated mining system.
Automated Mining Systems – Pros and Cons
As with any new equipment, you should consider the advantages and drawbacks of implementing an automated mining system before deciding. Let’s start with the benefits:
– Increased efficiency: Automated systems can reduce loading and hauling times for certain materials by up to 20%. They also reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
– Reduced production costs: Automated systems can reduce the labor required to complete a job. They can also reduce the amount of diesel required to operate the equipment.
– Fewer workplace injuries: These systems help eliminate many of the hazards of manual mining operations. They can also be designed with fail-safe features to reduce the risk of injuries during a system failure. But there are also a few drawbacks to consider before making a decision.
– Increased upfront capital investment: Automated mining systems require an upfront investment that can be significantly higher than traditional mining methods.
– Risk of system failure: Many automated systems are controlled by computers and software, which are susceptible to cyber-attacks. In addition, these systems must be appropriately maintained.
– Increased risk of workplace injuries: While they can reduce some workplace hazards, they can also increase the risk of others, like being crushed by a machine.
Remote-controlled Trucks
Remote-controlled trucks are used at mines to transport the mined product from the pit to the stockpiles. These trucks are equipped with a remote control that allows the operator to control the truck from a safe distance. They’re typically used in open pit mining operations. This system is typically less expensive than fully automated systems. But it does come with some disadvantages. For example, it’s less efficient and intended for shorter distances. It does, however, offer operator flexibility in terms of scheduling. It can also be used for fine-tuning. A significant drawback of this system is that it’s less reliable than autonomous systems. In addition, it requires a considerable investment in the initial installation and would need to be replaced when the truck reaches the end of its useful life.
Autonomous Mining Vehicles
Autonomous mining vehicles are powered by electricity and/or diesel. They rely on sensors and computers to navigate the pit and deliver the mined product to where it needs to go. Autonomous vehicles are typically used in open pit mines. One of the major advantages of autonomous systems is they don’t rely on human input to navigate the pit, which can be an issue in remote areas. They also reduce the risk of operator error. Autonomous systems are often more expensive to install than remote-controlled systems. But they can be an investment worth making, especially regarding reliability. Autonomous systems are less likely to experience issues than remote-controlled systems. They also offer flexibility in terms of scheduling.
Machine-Based Automation
Machine-based automation is the most complex type of automated mining system. It uses heavy machinery, like excavators and front-end loaders, to perform all mining operations. Machine-based automation is most commonly used in underground mining operations. It’s more expensive to implement than the other types of systems. But it does come with a few advantages. For example, it’s the most efficient system available. It also offers more excellent reliability when compared to remote-controlled systems. Machine-based systems are also great at reducing the risk of workplace injuries. They allow for safer mining operations by eliminating the need to transport materials by hand.
Conclusions
Mining has come a long way since humans began excavating natural resources. With technological advancements, open pit mining has become safer and more efficient. There’s no question that automation improves efficiency and reduces production costs. But like anything else, implementing such technology has pros and cons. Before investing in an automated mining system, an operator needs to evaluate its pros and cons to determine if it will benefit that particular operation. For example, wheel-based systems, like remote-controlled trucks, are less expensive to implement than bucket-wheel systems. But they’re also less efficient and intended for shorter distances, which can be a disadvantage for certain operations.
