35
innovation and technology. These include cutting fuel costs by using a truckless solution
for conveying ore, reducing water consumption by up to 93% through using the humidity
in the ore itself to remove impurities, and through using an advanced automation and
control system [12].
6. BHP has improved both safety and profitability by using drones fitted with military-grade
cameras and are able to transmit real-time aerial footage and 3D maps. The company estimates that it is saving $5 million a year at its Queensland sites alone by replacing planes
with drones for some survey work. The drones are used in several other processes, from
ensuring areas are clear before blasting and tracking blast fumes [12].
The benefits of asset optimisation tools can be significant. Separate analysis by PwC estimated that companies could lower maintenance costs by between 20 to 40 percent, increase
asset utilisation by up to 20 percent, reduce capital expenses by between 5 and 10 percent,
whilst also improving environmental health and safety [12].
Figures 9–12 below [21] illustrate remote control rooms, together with autonomous trucks,
drill rigs and locomotive.
10 CONCLUSIONS
Mining and mining engineering are one of the oldest and most durable industries and professions, with the oldest Mine on archaeological record being some 43,000 years old and
interestingly located in Africa (Swaziland). Mining will survive many of the current industries and those yet to come, continuing to provide a return for all stakeholders associated
with it. It is now a highly complex and technology driven business, where engineering skills
and knowhow not only determine success, but also safety, the environment and many other
Figures 9 and 10. Rio Tinto remote control room and autonomous trucks.
Figures 11 and 12. Rio Tinto autonomous drill rigs and locomotive.
innovation and technology. These include cutting fuel costs by using a truckless solution
for conveying ore, reducing water consumption by up to 93% through using the humidity
in the ore itself to remove impurities, and through using an advanced automation and
control system [12].
6. BHP has improved both safety and profitability by using drones fitted with military-grade
cameras and are able to transmit real-time aerial footage and 3D maps. The company estimates that it is saving $5 million a year at its Queensland sites alone by replacing planes
with drones for some survey work. The drones are used in several other processes, from
ensuring areas are clear before blasting and tracking blast fumes [12].
The benefits of asset optimisation tools can be significant. Separate analysis by PwC estimated that companies could lower maintenance costs by between 20 to 40 percent, increase
asset utilisation by up to 20 percent, reduce capital expenses by between 5 and 10 percent,
whilst also improving environmental health and safety [12].
Figures 9–12 below [21] illustrate remote control rooms, together with autonomous trucks,
drill rigs and locomotive.
10 CONCLUSIONS
Mining and mining engineering are one of the oldest and most durable industries and professions, with the oldest Mine on archaeological record being some 43,000 years old and
interestingly located in Africa (Swaziland). Mining will survive many of the current industries and those yet to come, continuing to provide a return for all stakeholders associated
with it. It is now a highly complex and technology driven business, where engineering skills
and knowhow not only determine success, but also safety, the environment and many other
Figures 9 and 10. Rio Tinto remote control room and autonomous trucks.
Figures 11 and 12. Rio Tinto autonomous drill rigs and locomotive.