NEZ GUEVARA Improvements in technology can change the way companies view mineral deposits, improve safety across operations and aid in managing costs
A constant success factor throughout the history of mining has been the adoption of new technologies, says UK-based information solutions and technologies company Timetric senior mining analyst Nez Guevara.
He says that one key issue that has made this more of a necessity is the transition mining companies must currently undertake, in the face of low commodity prices, and the move away from capital expenditure towards efficiency.
“The costs of failing to do so will be potentially steep for miners,” Guevara warns.
However, he says that the improvements in technology can change the way companies view mineral deposits, improve safety across operations and aid in managing costs.
Timetric data from over 630 mines across six regions highlights a range of investment priorities in different areas of technology. These regions include North America, Latin America, Australia, Asia, Africa, Europe and the former Soviet Union.
Guevara states that this data indicates that mining companies are planning investments into areas that cover mine management software and systems, and advancements in vehicle-related technologies.
He says that the majority of these investments come from mining operations throughout Africa, specifically in fatigue management technologies, and show a strong focus on employee/operator safety and wellbeing.
“The North American industry is looking to make improvements in collision avoidance and proximity detection technologies, which is another safety directed technology but this will also improve equipment operational use,” notes Guevara.
Moreover, he comments that operations throughout Asia are looking to invest in high level mine-management software, namely for scheduling and operational improvement purposes.
“The European region, which also includes the former Soviet Union, is investing in technologies to handle fleet management and vehicle monitoring, showing a strong inclination towards improving equipment use,” Guevara says.
He adds that improvements in remote control and machine automation technologies are the top priority for the Latin American region.
“Technologies can greatly aid in improving operational use and increase safety for operators. The data also shows that mines in Australia have the lowest rate of planned investments, with the highest number of these investments going towards environmental monitoring and emissions management tools.”
Guevara explains that many factors influence the investments mining companies make towards technology. These include, among others, the history of the industry in the region, the age of the equipment used, mine life, environmental constraints and factors regarding the workforce of the industry.