MINING SOFTWARE diggability , contributing to continuous improvement in material recovery and overall performance , he added .
With Maptek BlastLogic , an operations manager reviewing energy consumption over a specific period can recall blast metrics that correlate with the material being processed to explain spikes in usage , according to Eduardo Coloma
the help of AI and machine-learning algorithms if Maptek ’ s success with its DomainMCF are anything to go by .
Maptek DomainMCF generates domain boundaries directly from geological sample data for rapid creation of resource models . This ensures mining companies incorporate the latest data to easily generate forecasts of project profitability within investment timelines , according to Coloma .
The AI embedded in DomainMCF allows the industry to use the skillsets of experienced personnel more efficiently , embedding years of expertise into smart systems to help get the job done on time and under budget .
In Western Australia , a case study with IGO Limited followed geologists comparing machine learning and traditional approaches when preparing a resource update for the Nova- Bollinger underground mine . Faster processing with DomainMCF , in this example , meant senior staff had more time to focus on training less experienced colleagues and improving overall team productivity .
There are further layers of automation to be had here , too .
Coloma explained : “ An automated continuous improvement loop was once a dream , as the time lag between acquiring data and utilising that data was prohibitive , and decisions were often needed before the new data was processed . The landscape is changing as products are intentionally developed to be integrated into the data collection-storage-analysis-reporting processes that miners rely on for operational decision making .”
Maptek is taking a holistic approach to this integration process – through APIs or SDKs or scripting or a new interface with an OEM to promote data interoperability – identifying where integration may provide the solution .
And more solutions are likely to come into this mix with the need to generate and analyse data related to sustainability metrics .
Products like Maptek Evolution are already being used to consider variables such as water consumption during the comminution process , or haulage evaluation comparing trucks versus inpit crushing to minimise fuel consumption , as part of running strategic and tactical evaluations of mine schedule scenarios , according to Coloma .
Mining operations can go further , considering the entire comminution process , including optimising the energy required to process material . Taking a strategic approach to blasting at a site that is analysed against processing outcomes via Maptek BlastLogic could offer potential .
Coloma explained : “ With Maptek BlastLogic , an operations manager reviewing energy consumption over a specific period can recall blast metrics that correlate with the material being processed to explain spikes in usage .”
By being able to identify inefficiencies due to drill setup errors , operations can reduce the incidence of oversize rock and poor blast
Tapping into first-hand knowledge
Datamine claims to have the broadest range of software solutions on the market , with over 35 distinct product offerings across the mining value chain , from greenfield exploration through to material tracking and trading .
“ At Datamine , we understand that each mining company ’ s needs are as distinct as the mineral deposits they own ,” Andy Lapworth , Chief Technology Officer at Datamine , told IM . “ Datamine ’ s network of more than 25 offices around the world allows it to provide tailored local support and offer flexible pricing options to suit individual regions .”
Datamine says this scale , on top of the related consulting and support services , plus the collaborative nature of its product development teams , ensures clients generate value out of the company ’ s offering .
One example is the resource modelling package Studio RM Pro , a single software solution that now comprises geological modelling and geostatistical software products Studio RM , Isatis . neo and Supervisor ® . Such a combination enables resource geologists to carry out complex resource estimation work .
The addition of the Snowden Optiro consulting arm – which came into Datamine in 2021 – further strengthened this proposition .
“ Having our own consultants engaged in feasibility and mine design studies provides us with first-hand knowledge of the challenges the industry is facing as well as unrestricted and quality feedback on our products ,” Lapworth said .
This industry feedback has also led to the development of a new mining reconciliation program , which combines consulting services provided by industry leaders and top-tier software solutions to help mining companies achieve operational efficiency and unlock
“ At Datamine , we understand that each mining company ’ s needs are as distinct as the mineral deposits they own ,” Andy Lapworth says
40 International Mining | FEBRUARY 2024