African Mining June 2021 | Page 25

OPINION •

Technology offers a lifeline Mines have always been considered dangerous environments to work in . However , as the exploration of new deposits become increasingly complex , including lower ore grades and deeper deposits , the number of injuries remains persistently high . This is where technological innovations offer a lifeline . The World Economic Forum projects that automation and robotics could prevent 10 000 injuries in the mining and metals industries in the decade to 2025 .

Through the implementation of AI-powered autonomous systems , mining companies are now able to use self-controlled machines to take charge of the operations in unstable environments . For example , the Syama underground gold mine in Mali , has become the first fully automated mine , incorporating an automated haulage system and mine digitisation programmes , among other technological innovations . This move not only significantly reduces the threat to miners ’ lives , however , the rise of the ‘ digital mine ’ is also set to boost overall productivity with machines able to work 24 / 7 .

Spacial data visualisation Spatial data is becoming increasingly valuable across the mining sector , with three-dimensional modelling and virtual reality software ’ s enabling companies to plan new mines remotely . For example , three-dimensional modelling allows companies to create a realistic model of a new mine , with viewable depth perception , which enables them to assess potential issues before plans are deployed in the real world .

In addition to this , using real-time data collated from strategically placed sensors , a digital twin of an already established mine can be created . From this model , it is possible to perform simulations and stress test potential areas of weakness in the equipment . Digital twinning is becoming an increasingly important tool to enhance operational planning and reduce overall costs , by mitigating against interruptions across the mine workflow and optimising the maintenance of equipment . In fact , a 2017 study by the World Economic Forum , in collaboration with Accenture , estimated that the rise of digital twinning could contribute a benefit of USD190- billion across the mining industry between 2016-2025 .

Drones and surveillance Mining by its nature has a negative impact on the environment . Whilst this is an unavoidable reality , mining companies can significantly reduce this impact by tracking how resources are extracted and disposed of . For example , automated drones can

Albert Hyseni / Unsplash

New processes and technologies must be developed to meet the increasing demand for materials , and this is where the rise of smart mines can offer a solution .

be used to monitor excavation and extraction projects , keeping detailed accounts on the spread of waste products and harmful materials . By introducing an element of accountability , mining companies can take steps to minimise subsequent knock-on effects .

Furthermore , drones can also be used to assess pipeline infrastructure and retention ponds , whilst also providing safety surveillance in hazardous areas and asset management across multiple sites . For example , at the Husab mine in Namibia – the world ’ s second largest open-pit uranium mine – drone technologies are used to survey the entire mining site and produce exact volumetric measurements for the end of year audits . This method not only enables surveyors to collect all the required data at a much quicker pace and at a fraction of the cost , compared to ground-based surveying methods , but it also circumvents project