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Demand for autonomous haulage systems (AHS) in the mining industry is on the rise with miners looking to AHS for efficiency, safety, and maintenance improvements in their mining operations. In mining, autonomous means a very controlled process which is all about reducing variability and making everything work as it should.
As self-driving vehicles become more prevalent, along with the Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless connectivity, miners are showing more interest in automating haul trucks and other mobile equipment. A number of mining companies around the world have fleets of autonomous trucks, loaders, or trains at mine sites, or they are in the process of piloting the use of such vehicles.
Benefits of AHS
While the deployment of autonomous operations is still relatively limited, benefits of AHS include increased productivity, a reduction in the total cost of ownership, and improved safety. Having AHS means there are fewer operators being exposed to the mining environment, which means the risk of injuries are minimised as there are fewer people needed around mining equipment.
Manned machines in mining operations are often associated with breaks and shift changes, however with AHS productivity increases as there is greater machine availability. Reducing fuel consumption and emissions is another reported benefit. Tyres are also expected to last longer due to less sudden starts or abrupt steering.
Features
AHS mining fleet management systems integrate on-board vehicle controllers, obstacle detection and avoidance systems, as well as high-precision global positioning capabilities. Where automated trucks once followed a pre-programmed path and operated through a central control system overseen by people who might have actions to correct, the AHS emerging now are more advanced. Autonomous trucks are operating largely on their own and can automatically adjust their paths around obstacles and different conditions. While people will still be needed to oversee the activity, little intervention is required.
The future
Utilising AHS technology into mining equipment is a huge step away from traditional practices and will ultimately make mining operations more competitive. The technology is continually changing – especially with the increase in the intelligence of systems – and it will help miners address their growing social and environment goals while improving safety, efficiency, and productivity on site.
Evolving toward autonomy
Mines that incorporate AHS into their fleets will require significant planning changes to be made. It is often best to start with gradual steps first focussing on areas where the opportunity for impact or success is high. Technology is developing quickly so embracing new autonomy is important and fundamental to the progressing mining landscape. Atlantech can help prepare a vision and roadmap for implementing autonomous operations into your mining operation. Contact us to discover more about how we can help.
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