HIGH PROFILE
Unlocking new mining value
Spigot pipes tee off the main tailing distribution line to feed various sections of the containment area . Each spigot has an isolation valve to control tailing flow to a particular zone so the material is uniformly spread across the containment surface
miners to achieve greater productivity , safety , and environmental stewardship , addressing the industry ’ s most pressing challenges .
Emerson helps mining clients globally optimise their operations through advanced process control , condition monitoring and instrumentation solutions . We caught up with David Harrach , Area Sales Director
Emerson ’ s condition monitoring , instrumentation and automation solutions help the world ' s largest mining , metals and minerals operations improve the optimisation and reliability of their most critical assets . For this interview we spoke to David Harrach , who has served process industry clients for more than 25 years , with a focus on operational excellence . He is currently an Area Sales Director for Emerson and leads their North American Mining Council .
Q Emerson has a long-standing presence in the mining sector . Can you describe some key milestones in Emerson ’ s journey within this industry and how they have shaped the company ’ s approach to mining solutions today ? A Mining is as vital an industry as it is challenging . Emerson addresses these challenges by providing operators with the reliable hardware , software , and support services they need to meet their business objectives . We deploy our primary
David Harrach , Area Sales Director , Emerson products - instrumentation , valves and actuators , and controls and software - in the most demanding mining environments in the world . All the major assets in a mining operation have
mission critical information to share . At Emerson , we instrument those assets and processes , and we help miners collect , organise , and act on that information . Major Emerson milestones include the development of mining-specific solutions , such as : deploying wireless instrumentation to improve heap leaching ; organising multiple data sources to create a comprehensive predictive maintenance plan ; leveraging vibration monitoring technologies to improve bulk material handling ; and optimising mobile asset performance .
Q Emerson is known for its technological innovations . What are some of the latest technologies or solutions that Emerson has introduced to the mining industry , and how do they address common challenges faced by miners today ? A The mining industry needs cutting-edge technologies to address key challenges , such as degrading ore supplies , difficulty finding sufficient experienced staff , and staff working in remote , harsh , and hazardous locations . Emerson ’ s wireless sensing technologies enhance worker safety by providing remote monitoring in hazardous environments , reducing the need for personnel to enter dangerous areas . The company ’ s advanced automation solutions optimise mining operations by minimising downtime and reducing operational costs through
efficient process control . Clarkson Valves , known
for their durability and performance in harsh mining conditions , provide reliable and efficient flow control , crucial for maintaining operational integrity . These innovations collectively empower
Q Sustainability is a crucial aspect of modern mining operations . How is Emerson contributing to making mining processes more sustainable , and what are the long-term benefits you foresee for your clients in the mining industry ? A The mining industry must make their operations more sustainable through innovative technologies and solutions . Emerson ’ s advanced process control solutions reduce resource consumption by minimising waste and improving yield . Water management technologies ensure efficient water use and treatment in mining operations , addressing one of the most critical resources in the industry . Emerson provides emissions monitoring and control solutions , helping mining operations reduce their environmental footprint and comply with stringent environmental regulations . By leveraging Emerson ’ s automation and digital transformation tools , mining companies can optimise their entire production process , leading to safer , more reliable , and more sustainable operations .
Q Emerson operates on a global scale . How does Emerson adapt its technology and services for different mining operations around the world , and can you give examples of how local challenges have driven innovation at Emerson ?
Rotating large valves from a vertical shaft to a horizontal shaft orientation ( above ) greatly reduced premature seal and bearing failures in this potash mining application
10 International Mining | AUGUST 2024